Today is 4 May, the Star Wars Day, and it goes without saying that it’s a nostalgic day for the religion-like fandom that grew up with every installment of the Star Wars series.
It is an important day for all of those who’ve watched the movies in the order of their release and the chronological order, and also for those who cannot wait for December 2019 to witness the culmination of utter brilliance that is Star Wars, with the release of final episode, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.
What better day than today to take a look back at this journey that nears its end! We are grateful for the heroes who are no longer amidst us, but continue to inspire us even after all these years.
Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia Organa)
Apart from being a fierce warrior with altruistic intentions, Princess Leia was everyone’s favourite because of her quick reflexes, wit and ways of getting out of any given problem. (Yes. Take that, Jabba the Hutt!)
Carrie Fisher, who passed away in 2016, has gone down in history for her fashion statement too, when she played the role of Princess Leia. As a galactic leader with double bunned hair and a signature white costume, Leia cast spells with her beauty and innocent eyes. The character still remains an inspiration for millions of women.
Kenny Baker (R2D2)
Who, other than George Lucas, could have made us fall in love with a droid that hasn’t spoken a single comprehensible word ever? We all grew up wanting a friend like that little white thing with glowing buttons.
Kenny Baker, the man inside R2D2, brought the droid to life. Although many may fail to notice, his individual role held so much value in making R2D2 the character it has become today. Overcoming the shortcomings of his own life, Kenny Baker, with a height of 3.8 feet, stands tall in our hearts and memories. He passed away in 2016.
Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca)
The wookie was a character that was adorable and fierce at the same time. Remember when Han told us that “it’s not wise to upset a wookie.” or all those times when Chewbacca proved to be the best pal.
Actor Peter Mayhew, who played the Chewbacca, passed away on 30 April, leaving all the wookie fans deep in sorrow. Chewbacca was and continues to be the mascot of loyalty and friendship across the globe. With the sudden news of Mayhew’s demise, internet was flooded with shock and prayers for his soul. Every Chewie growl shall remind us of Mr Mayhew.
As we look back at the galaxy far far away and the heroes we’ve lost, it hits us with the same sorrow that surged when Obi Wan Kenobi was killed. After all, he was a beacon of hope for all, and not just Luke. This goes on to show how these fictional characters have become an inseparable part of our reality. This 4 May goes out to every hero that we lost in the journey.
May the force be with them!
May the force be with you!
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