The man on whose life Akshay Kumar’s ‘Airlift’ was based, passes away

Akshay Kumar played the role of Ranjit Katyal in the film ‘Airlift’, the man who evacuated Indians based in Kuwait. The movie was based on a real-life character whose name was Sunny Mathew, and we suddenly came across a very sad news, that of Sunny Mathew’s demise.

Nikkhil Advani‏, who was one of the producers of the film, tweeted, “The real #RanjitKatiyal lost his battle with ALS last night. 1,70,000 families pray for you. #RIPSunnyMathew @akshaykumar @RajaMenon.”

Akshay quoted retweeted this and wrote, “Extremely sad news, was an honour to portray him onscreen. Thoughts and prayers with his family ?? #RIPSunnyMathew.”

‘Airlift’, which had released last year had turned out to be a hit film at the box office. It also starred Nimrat Kaur. The makers had changed the name of Akshay’s character in the film, but had given credit to Sunny Mathew. Akki also won a National Award for this film. (Also Read: #ThrowbackThursday: When Akshay Kumar replied to a fan letter in 1995)

We too pray that his soul rest in peace.

Murtuza Iqbal

‘Eat Sleep Bollywood Repeat’ is his life Mantra. Dance is his first love and Rani Mukerji is his eternal crush. He is someone who loves being himself, and as for the ones who don’t agree, his reply? “Talk to my hand!”