The sudden demise of former Indian cricket legend Bishan Singh Bedi has left an irreparable void for his family and his fans.
The celebrated Indian spinner and father of Ghoomer actor Angad Bedi breathed his last on Monday, October 23rd, following prolonged age-related illness.
On Monday evening, veteran actress Sharmila Tagore was spotted at his residence in New Delhi, where the Gulmohar actress payed a visit to offer her last respects to the departed soul.
Watch the video below:
Tagore, is married to late Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, who was Bedi's predecessor as the former Indian cricket captain. Bedi took over the baton of captaincy in 1976. Under Pataudi's guidance, Bedi was a part of the former's trusted spin quartet including Erapalli Prasanna, BS Chandrasekhar and S Venkataraghavan, which dominated India's bowling attack and intimidated the opposition that stood against them.
Veteran cricketers, experts and fans would recall Bedi's memorable five-wicket hauls that propelled India's first-ever Test series win in New Zealand and many series clinched from England in between 1967 - 1971.
A champion on the field, Bedi was also known for his candour, wit and his ability to stand up for what was right. Many remember him as one who was unafraid of speaking his mind and one who often spoke in favour of better remuneration and conditions for cricketers.
Several cricket experts have confessed that Bedi, a traditionalist was one to condemn the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the practice of players being selected on the basis of their IPL performances.
TRIBUTES POUR IN
News of Bedi's demise has sent shockwaves across the Indian cricketing and film fraternity.
Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan penned his condolences for the legend, through a heartfelt post on social media. The Jawan actor, also an ardent sports enthusiast said, "Growing up our lives are moulded by the spirit, the gusto and sheer grace of people who we see and experience around us. Mr. #BishanSinghBedi was one of them. May God bless his soul & thank u Sir for teaching us so much about sports & life. You will be missed immensely. RIP."
Sam Bahadur actor Vicky Kaushal, a close friend to Angad and wife Neha Dhupia, took to his Instagram stories to share his thoughts. "Deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Bishan Singh Bedi Sir. May his soul rest in peace. All my thoughts and prayers go out to my brother Angad, Neha and their family."
Bedi is survived by his wife Anju, children Angad, Neha, daughter-in-law Neha Dhupia and grandchildren Mehr and Guriq.
