Mumbai: Veteran Bollywood actress Anjana Mumtaz has paid a heartfelt tribute to her “first hero,” Deb Mukherjee, who passed away on Friday, March 14, aged 83.

Taking to Instagram, Anjana shared a poster of her debut film Sambandh (1969), in which Deb Mukherjee starred. She also posted a recent picture of the two smiling together, alongside a touching caption: "Debu Mukherjee, my first hero. You will be missed. RIP."

Directed by Ajoy Biswas, Sambandh told the story of a boy who grows up cynical after his parents' separation. He marries a girl, only to face a similar fate. Years later, he discovers his wife is about to remarry.

Deb Mukherjee’s death was confirmed by his spokesperson, who revealed that he passed away in the morning due to age-related health issues.

A prominent member of the Samarth-Mukherjee family, Deb was the father of filmmaker Ayan Mukerji and father-in-law of director Ashutosh Gowariker. His funeral was held at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Juhu on March 14, attended by close family, including Kajol, Rani Mukherji, Tanuja, Tanissha, as well as Ayan Mukerji's friends, including Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt.

Born in Kanpur in 1941, Deb Mukherjee hailed from a legendary film family. His mother, Satidevi, was the only sister of the iconic Ashok Kumar, Anup Kumar, and Kishore Kumar. His brothers included actor Joy Mukherjee and filmmaker Shomu Mukherjee, who was married to actress Tanuja.

Deb began his career in the 1960s with small roles in films such as Tu Hi Meri Zindagi and Abhinetri. He later transitioned into supporting roles in films like Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikander and King Uncle. His last on-screen appearance was a cameo in Vishal Bhardwaj's Kaminey (2009).