It is indeed very sad news. Not only for the world of films but also for the stage. I will always remember Hangal saab‘s characters’ as ‘pious, kind-hearted and humble’. His gift for giving a natural performance is unmatched. His performances in Deewar, Sholay and countless films of the 70′s will make me think of him with reverence – a ‘great’ actor. On the sets of Lagaan, I bonded with him exceptionally well and I was amazed to discover that Hangal saab was very close to the characters he played – upright, honest, dedicated and humble. I saluted him then. I salute him today. And in years to come, he will always be reference point for me when I tell my actors – to perform ‘naturally’ like the ‘great’ actor A K Hangal.
Ashutosh Gowariker