Filmmaker Raj Kanwar, who passed away yesterday following kidney transplant complications, is known for giving notable breaks to several B-town stars in the initial stages of their careers. While Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra can boast about their launch pad with Kanwar’s films, many have fond memories of the noted late producer-director-screenwriter.

Quoted Abhishek Bachchan on his micro-blogging site – “Terribly saddened by the passing of Raj Kanwar. Was the 1st person to sign me after Refuggee. He made Aishwarya and my 1st film together. Dhai Akshar Prem Ke. Was a lovely man, always happy, smiling and joking. Have wonderful wonderful memories of him. Now no more.”

While Khiladi Akshay Kumar who worked under Kanwar in ‘Humko Deewana Kar Gaye’ wrote, “Deeply saddened to know, Raj Kanwar, one of our finest directors passed away. He'd directed two of my personal favourite films of my career, Andaaz & Humko Deewana Kar Gaye. My thoughts & prayers with his family. RIP.” As a matter of fact, Kanwar’s son Abhay featured alongside Akshay in the film, at a time when Abhay was ten.

Raj Kanwar’s unexpected demise surprised several B-town celebrities as well, who conveyed their grief on Twitter –

Bipasha Basu – “RIP Raj Kanwar!Very sad news!Live right now, never know whether the next moment is there or not!”

Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar, who said - "Sad to hear about director Raj Kanwar's demise. RIP."

Arjun Rampal – “Just heard the saddest news of Mr Raj Kanwar's demise, had the opportunity of interacting with him.Pray for his soul and strength to family.”

Anupam Kher – “Raj Kanwar with whom I did theatre & three films was a polite person & A Passionate Film Maker. Very sad at his demise. Bye my friend. RIP”

Lara Dutta Bhupathi – “R.I.P. Raj ji. Friend,director and guide.Bid goodbye with a very heavy heart! :-(. We lost a kind, gentle, positive man.”

Vivek Oberoi – “RIP Raj Kanwarji...a talented director who gave us wonderful films. You will be greatly missed”

Kunal Kemmu – “R.I.P Raj kanwarji- respect and prayers”

Sunidhi Chauhan – “R.I.P Raj kanwar ji.. Had the privilege of working with him on his projects. Wonderful human being.. God be with him.”

Shaan – “Just yesterday heard of Anil Mohile succumbing to Heart Failure... And now Raj Kanwar is no more... both such Warm,Humble, Talented Greats..”

Dia Mirza – “Saddened by the news of Rajji's untimely passing... Interacted with him a few times, a kind, gentle man. God give his family strength.”