Daijiworld Media Network

Mumbai, Aug 19: Art director Samir Chanda passed away following a massive cardiac arrest on Thursday August 18.

Chanda who had won the National Film Award for best art direction thrice in his 32-year-old career, breathed his last at a hospital here on Thursday.

Chanda was well known for his work in movies like Guru, Omkara, Rang De Basanti, Kharij, Aks, Raavan, Bose The Forgotten Hero, Kaalpurush, Krishna, Saat Khoon Maaf and Yatra, among others.

Director Sangeeth Sivan declared the death of the film maker. He said, "It is with deep regret that I convey the tragic news of the demise of my dear friend and reputed art director Samir Chanda a few hours back of a heart failure.”

Bolloywood celebs have expressed their grief on social networking sites. Writes Priyanka Chopra: "RIP Samir Chanda. Had the good fortune of knowing the incredible man he was in Kaminey and Saat khoon maaf. Thank u for always believing in me. This is a complete shock.. there is a song... "only the good die young" by Billy Joel .. U will always be remembered." (sic)

Actor Siddharth wrote: "Art director Samir chanda passed away this evening. Wonderful creator, beautiful human being. Gone too soon. Rest in peace dada. Miss you."

Director Shirish Kunder, on his part, writes: "RIP Samir Chanda. Was working with him on Joker. We just met last evening to discuss designs for next schedule. Am shocked!"

Writes director Anant Mahadevan, "Actor Shammi Kapoor, Art director Samir Chanda, composer Johnson, all left within a week...dark phase for the show world."