Saira Banu Reflects on the Bond Between Raj Kapoor and Dilip Kumar
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Mumbai, Dec 14 (NationPress) Acclaimed actress Saira Banu is paying tribute to the legendary figure of Indian cinema, Raj Kapoor, as we commemorate his centenary. On Saturday, the actress, who has a following of 94,300, took to her Instagram account to share a nostalgic video reminiscing about the friendship between Raj Kapoor and her husband, Dilip Kumar.
The video features the two icons enjoying playful moments, engaging in cricket, and sharing light-hearted antics together.
In her heartfelt caption, Saira wrote, “Raj Kapoor, the showman, the dreamer, the eternal storyteller, was once a boy wandering through the bustling yet serene streets of Peshawar. It is no coincidence that two of the greatest legends, Sahib and Raj Ji, both originated from Peshawar.”
She elaborated that although many in the film industry and their admirers perceived them as professional adversaries, they were, in fact, childhood friends from the same soil of Peshawar.
She added, “They had more in common than just their city; they shared a friendship so deep that it transcended time, fame, and even the challenges of life. Their bond was forged in the streets of their hometown, strengthened amidst the hustle of Mumbai, and celebrated on the grand stage of life. Beyond the glitz and glamour, they were simply two men who cherished each other’s companionship. Their mutual love for cricket united them as boys at heart, laughing and enjoying the sun-drenched days together. Their compassion also brought them together, as they collaborated on noble causes, raising funds and fostering hope during challenging times.”
Saira reminisced, “Raj Ji, with his playful humor, would often tease Sahib, urging him to marry. ‘Shaadi kyun nahi karta, yaar?’ he would ask with a grin. ‘On the day you get married, I’ll come to you on my knees.’ And when that day finally arrived, and Sahib married me, Raj Ji humorously knelt before him and said, ‘See, I told you! Thank you for letting me do this.’”
She recalled that when Raj Kapoor was hospitalized following a cardiac arrest, Dilip Kumar returned immediately upon hearing the news, even while abroad.
“Standing beside his still friend, he whispered through tears, ‘Raj, wake up! I’ve brought the aroma of Chapli Kebabs. Let’s stroll through the bazaar like we used to, eating kebabs, laughing, and reminiscing. Now, stop pretending; take me back to Peshawar.’ His voice cracked, his heart broken, and in that silent room, the magnitude of their love resonated louder than any words could express,” she concluded.
