Veteran actress Saira Banu fondly remembered her late husband, the legendary actor Dilip Kumar, on his death anniversary, which falls on July 7. The ‘tragedy king’ of Bollywood, renowned for his exceptional acting skills, passed away on this day in 2021.
Heartfelt Letter and Cherished Memories
In a heartfelt letter, Saira Banu reflected on their journey together, sharing touching anecdotes from their life. She recounted how Dilip Kumar, despite his fame and success, suffered from severe insomnia before their marriage. After they married, he lovingly nicknamed her his ‘sleeping pill’ because her presence helped him sleep peacefully.
Endearing Anecdotes and Personal Moments
Saira Banu also shared a charming incident involving a note Dilip Kumar wrote to her. Known for his love of music, he often hosted musical gatherings at their home. During one such evening, unable to sleep without her, he penned a note asking for her suggestion, ending it humorously with “Yours 100%.”
Friendships with Eminent Personalities
Highlighting Dilip Kumar’s influential relationships, Saira Banu mentioned his close friendships with India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and other prominent figures like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narsimha Rao. She noted his passion for sports and how he excelled in both football and cricket, expressing that he might have pursued a career in sports had fate not led him to acting.
Forever in Hearts and Memories
Expressing gratitude towards Dilip Kumar’s admirers, Saira Banu acknowledged their continuous support and love. She emphasized that Dilip Kumar remains an inspiration for six generations of actors and will continue to inspire future generations. She concluded her letter with a prayer for his eternal peace and well-being.
Legacy of a Legend
Dilip Kumar, born on December 11, 1922, began his acting career in 1944 with ‘Jwar Bhata’. His illustrious career includes iconic films like ‘Mughal-E-Azam’, ‘Devdas’, and ‘Naya Daur’. Saira Banu, who debuted in 1961 with ‘Junglee’, also enjoyed a successful acting career, featuring in several memorable movies.
