Mumbai, December 3 (NationPress) Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur commemorated the death anniversary of the legendary star Dev Anand on December 3 by sharing a heartfelt story that deepened his connection with Anand. In a social media post featuring a photograph of Dev Anand, Shekhar recounted a significant moment during a challenging phase for the actor's film. “The phone rang, and I could see the excitement in his eyes. ‘Thank you, thank you,’ he exclaimed. ‘I’m so glad you enjoyed the film…’ Similar calls continued to come in, and he cherished the compliments, especially since he had poured all his personal resources into this project.”

He reminisced, “I was there with him ... taking on a minor role in his film ‘Ishq Ishq Ishq’ ... my initial taste of the film industry ... albeit small ...” Shekhar continued, “We journeyed all the way to Nepal ... to the Himalayas ... reaching the Everest Hotel and nearly reaching the Everest Base Camp ... no expense was spared. However, the tone of those calls soon shifted ... Dev Anand’s expressions changed. ‘Oh ... which scenes did the audience dislike? What do you mean people are leaving before the film ends? ... The theaters are empty ... Are you sure?”

He further shared, “As my uncle Dev Anand realized that not only had his dream project flopped at the box office ... but he had also incurred significant financial losses. The calls ceased ... Dev Uncle turned to me and said, ‘Shekhar, the film is a disaster.’ He went on to describe how deeply this affected him.”

“He excused himself to the washroom, and I thought it was best to let him process his grief. But he returned almost immediately ... his demeanor had shifted ... His voice was filled with enthusiasm and hope.” Had there been a change in the film's fate? No, he was pacing the room like an eager child. ‘Shekhar ... I have a concept for another film ... It’s a fantastic story ... If you leave me now ... I must start writing this new film ... ‘It’s going to be incredible.’

The filmmaker concluded, “He’s no longer with us ... But I will always remember the lesson he imparted. Regret is not an emotion you can afford to carry. #DevAnand #Regret #Hope.”

For those unfamiliar, Dev Anand was Shekhar Kapur’s ‘Mama’ (maternal uncle). Recently, Shekhar shared a childhood photo of himself with his mother and a young Dev Anand.

A part of the extended caption read, “Here’s my mom delighted to be with her beloved brother ... Dev Anand, his wife, Mona Aunty, and my elder sister Neelu ... and a sulky, shy me ... Happy Birthday ... Mama.”

The iconic star, Dev Anand, passed away on December 3, 2011, in London at the age of 88. His passing marked the conclusion of an era, as he was one of the most enduring and influential figures in Hindi cinema.

His filmography includes cult classics such as Guide, Jewel Thief, CID, Hum Dono, Tere Ghar Ke Samne, Johny Mera Naam, Bombai Ka Babu, and Hare Rama Hare Krishna.

His collaboration with the legendary actress Waheeda Rehman was a massive success during the 1960s era of Bollywood.

–IANS