MUMBAI: It was a sea of humanity with moist eyes and prayers when the last remains of Shammi Kapoor was consigned to the flames at the Ban Ganga cremation ground on Monday morning.

Kapoor‘s body was brought to the cremation ground around 10.30 in the morning and the last rites were performed by his son, Aditya Raj Kapoor. The late actor‘s brother, Shashi Kapoor, who is himself unwell, attended the cremation on a wheelchair. His nephews Randhir and Rishi Kapoor and his grandnephew Ranbir were also present for the last rites.

Apart from the family, many Bollywood celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan, Ashutosh Gowarikar, Prakash Jha, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Ketan Desai, Satish Kaushik, Subhash Ghai, Jug Mundhra, Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, Yash Chopra, Nikhil Advani and Sudhir Mishra also attended his cremation.

 
Kapoor‘s son Aditya Raj Kapoor was by the veteran actor‘s side during the last few moments and lauded his father for keeping the family together.

Talking on the sidelines, the young Kapoor said,"He kept his family close to him. It is a very big achievement that in spite of being such a big star, he could keep his family together. He just cannot be forgotten, he has left such a huge legacy behind."

The Prime Minister and President of India have condoled the death of Kapoor. "I am sad to learn of Shri Shammi Kapoor‘s demise. He was an accomplished actor who entertained millions and millions of fans in India and abroad. I share his family‘s grief," said Singh in his message.

Said Pratibha Patil, "Shri Kapoor was one of the veteran actors, who adorned Hindi cinema. He delighted Hindi cinema fans with his vivacious acting. He shall always be remembered by a generation of film watchers."

The 79-year-old actor breathed his last Sunday morning after suffering from kidney failure. He is survived by his wife Neela Devi, son Aditya Raj and daughter Kanchan Desai.