Veteran actor Tabassum Govil, the host of popular Doordarshan talk show ‘Phool Khile Hain Gulshan Gulshan’, has died after suffering a heart attack. The 78-year-old actor was also known for her acting as a child artiste in many films.
Tabassum’s son Hoshang Govil told PTI, ’Few days ago, she was admitted to a hospital. She had gastro problem and we went there for check-up. She suffered two cardiac attacks at 8.40 pm and 8.42 pm. She passed away peacefully on Friday night.’
After the news of Tabassum's demise broke, many celebrities took to social media to pay tribute to the actor.
Karan Johar, whose famous chat show ‘Koffee With Karan’ inspired by Tabassum’s chat show mourned the actor’s demise. He told ETimes, ‘She is an icon for me from my childhood. Phool Khile Hain Gulshan Gulshan was the first chat show that I ever saw. It had me mesmerized. I would wait patiently by my black and white TV set to watch the enigmatic Tabassum ji with her signature red rose beautifully completing her look and aura. When my father asked me what do I want to become when I grow up, I said I want to become Tabassum.’ ‘She will always be such a strong emotional memory for me… and an inspiration... my thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones, the filmmaker added.
Twinkle Khanna took to Instagram and shared an illustration of the veteran actor along with a note that read, ‘She was truly a legend. As a child I used to watch Phool Khile Hain Gulshan Gulshan with Tabassum ji as its spectacular host. I don't remember her guests. Just her. With her nasal twang and the rose tucked behind her ear. All these blurry recollections wrapped around me like cashmere layers on a winter morning. May she rest in peace.'
Film director Madhur Bhandarkar wrote on Twitter, ‘Sad to hear the demise of Veteran Actress & Anchor Tabassum ji. As a kid we used to watch her famous show on @DDNational Phool Khile Hain Gulshan Gulshan. My heartfelt condolences to her Family Members & Admirers. #OmShanti.’
Actor Ranvir Shorey tweeted, ‘Oh no. Another invaluable piece of my childhood gone! ‘Phool Khile Hain Gulshan-Gulshan’ is the first celebrity chat show I remember, and the affable Tabassum ji was always such a delight to watch. May her soul rest in peace.’
Singer Adnan Sami too took to Twitter and wrote, ‘Saddened to learn the news that Tabassum Sahiba has passed away. We will never forget her adorable, smiling & signature style on Television that won our hearts. 'Ab Jannat Ke Aur Bhi Phool Khilainge Gulshan Gulshan…’’
Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit too remembered the actor and wrote, ‘No words can do justice to your voice & ever smiling personality. Never saw her sad. Always full of positive energies which she used to spread around. Will miss you #Tabassum ji. A great loss to d film & tv industry. Heartfelt condolences to the family. ॐ शान्ति !’
Tabassum’s prayer meet to be held on November 21 in Mumbai’s Santacruz and many big celebrities are expected to attend the same.
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