The television industry plunged into despair today as news came in about the death of two of its finest talents. Veteran actress Rasika Joshi and young director Yatin Dang passed away last night and early this morning respectively Rasika Joshi who was last seen as Tara Fui in Bandini succumbed to cancer last night. She was admitted to a hospital in Bandra since the past three weeks as her condition had deteriorated. Yatin Dang who had directed shows like Bhagyavidhata, Rishton Se Badi Pratha and was currently directing Pratigya passed due to a massive heart attack early this morning. Yatin leaves behind a wife and two young children. Rasika Joshi’s funeral was held this morning and noted personalities from the world of Marathi theatre, film and the television industry were present. Aasiya Kazi who has worked with Rasika Joshi in Bandini said, “The news came as a big shock. It was a pleasure working with her and this news came to me as a big shock. I have been emotionally attached to her and it’s difficult for me to get over this.” Mourning at the loss of the young director producer of Pratigya Pearl Grey says, “He was an intelligent man and I could indentify myself a lot with him. We were shooting with him yesterday and he did not show any unhealthy signs. This is indeed a big loss.” Smita Singh who was a close friend of Yatin said, “He was like a brother and a father to me and I did not have the courage to go to his funeral. I hate God for being so cruel.” TellyChakkar offers its condolences to the families of the departed souls.