Ace cinematographer Ashok Mehta dies

Ace cinematographer Ashok Mehta, who had been critically ill from lung cancer, passed away at a hospital here today.

One of India's most accomplished cinematographers, the 65-year-old who was getting treated at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and had been in and out of hospital since February.

Mehta was an award-winning lensman and had worked with prominent filmmakers like Subhash Ghai, Rajiv Rai and MF Husain. He was the director of photography in films like 36 Chowringhee Lane, Utsav, Trikal, Khalnayak, Bandit Queen, Chalte Chalte, Gajgamini, Trimurti, Khalnayak, Moksha and Ram Lakhan.

He also launched model-turned-actor Arjun Rampal in 'Moksha' opposite Manisha Koirala. A true Renaissance Man, he even wrote and acted in some movies.

Ashok Mehta (left) with film-maker Subhash Ghai.u00a0

Rampal is planning to make a documentary on his mentor.

Several Bollywood celebrities mourned his passing on Twitter.

Film-maker Shekhar Kapur tweeted on the micro-blogging site, "RIP Ashok Mehta. With Respect Love Admiration Regret n Pain."

Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar says, "Sad to hear about demise of the Cinematographer Ashok Mehta who changed the vision of Indian Cinema RIP !!!"

Film actress Dia Mirza says, "This man was a real Tiger! He would roar the word "Bachche"! Kind soul. Ace DOP. Ace Family man. Ace Friend. Ace Countryman #RIPAshokMehta."

Farah Khan wrote: "Had the good fortune 2 work with Ashok mehta,revolutionary cinematographer..may God bless his soul."

Arshad Warsi, meanwhile, tweeted: "A man full of life who I love n respect has passed away.. M favourite DOP Ashok Mehta.. May his soul rest in peace."

Aftab Shivdasani wrote: "Just got news on the passing of yet another eminent personality - Mr.Ashok Mehta, veteran & ace cinematographer. Prayers for his soul, RIP."

Ken Ghosh : "Really saddened by the news of the death of Ashok Mehta - The man I learnt so much from, my guru."