Mumbai, Dec 5 (PTI): Actor-director Manish Acharya died in a freak accident after he fell off a horse in Matheran. 

The 40-year-old filmmaker, who was in Matheran with his family since December 2, hit himself in the head after falling off the horse and was rushed to a nearby hospital. The doctors declared him dead.

His first film, the critically acclaimed 'Loins of Punjab Presents' starring Shabana Azmi, released in the year 2007 and Manish also acted in it. He also worked in 'Luck By Chance' starring Hrithik Roshan.

Manish studied filmmaking at the New York University and did his MFA in Film Directing from the NYU Tisch School of the Arts.

His last rites were conducted at Chandanwadi crematorium in south Mumbai last night.
The sudden death sent shock waves in the film industry. Hrithik Roshan wrote in his tweet, "Its sad to hear about Manish Acharya... RIP."

"My friend, future director, super funny wannabe beach bum and unbelievable human being. @ManishAcharya .RIP. Im too shocked to say more (sic)," actress Priyanka Chopra posted.
Sonam Kapoor tweeted from Patiala, "Just found out about @ManishAcharya what a horrible horrible tragedy. Met him before coming here. Love and condolences to his family.."