The ongoing 35th International Film Festival of India witnessed an emotional moment on December 2, when Amitabh Bachchan inaugurated the Indian Retrospective section by paying tribute to the late Yash Johar.
"Yashji was a brilliant filmmaker. But more than that he was a great human being," Big B said, as he recalled how Johar had always helped people in distress in the film industry.
The IFFI will screen five Yash Johar productions – Dostana, Agneepath, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham and Kal Ho Naa Ho.
While Amitabh starred in three of these films (Dostana, Agneepath and K3G), he received his first National Award for Agneepath.
"Yashji gifted the industry with several good films. But his greatest gift to us is Karan, who is following his father's footsteps with sensitivity and talent," Amitabh said, amidst applause.
"It's a moment of mixed feelings for me," Karan said. "I am happy that my father is being honoured. But I also feel sad as it brings back memories of my father."
Photograph: Rajtilak Naik