A gathering was held by Miran Productions on Wednesday, 11 October, in memory of veteran actor Tom Alter who passed away on 29 September fighting a fierce battle with skin cancer.
The memorial service was held at the WWF auditorium in New Delhi because Alter had devoted much of his life to environmental conservation. The renowned actor and Padma Shri awardee had acted in many films, including Shatranj Ke Khiladi, Junoon, Ram Teri Ganga Maili, Aashiqui, and Gandhi.
His passion for theatre brought him to Delhi quite often. He had worked with Miran Production for plays like ‘Once upon a time’ and ‘Revisiting the epics’. He had been associated with the production house for quite some time.
Sujata Sonibali, director of Miran Productions, said Alter would talk and joke with everyone. “He loved making people happy.”
He would never ask about the payment. Really rare to find artists like him.The only thing he wanted to do was act.Sujata Sonibali, director of Miran Productions
Alter's son, Jamie, who was also present at the memorial service, said he was humbled by all the love his family had received from well-wishers, and would try his best to take his father's legacy forward.
Ravi Singh, CEO of WWF; Dr Sejal Worah, director of programs, WWF, and actor Sushma Seth shared some of their warm memories of Alter.
“Let us go then, you and I,
When the evening is spread out against the sky
Like a patient etherized upon a table;
Let us go, through certain half-deserted streets,
The muttering retreats
Of restless nights in one-night cheap hotels
And sawdust restaurants with oyster-shells:
Streets that follow like a tedious argument
Of insidious intent
To lead you to an overwhelming question ...
Oh, do not ask, “What is it?”
Let us go and make our visit.”
Charu Shankar, who has worked with Alter in many plays, recited this poem by TS Eliot, recalling her memories with the veteran actor who had once spontaneously burst out reciting this poem before a play.
Some of his favourite songs like Jeena isi ka naam hai, Zindagi ka safar hai yeh kaisa safar, and Main zindagi ka saath nibhata chala gaya were performed by Inder Thakur at the gathering.
Memories of the fine actor and humble human refuse to fade away from the minds of those who knew him.
Video Editor: Sandeep Suman
Music: Inder Thakur
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