“I cherish a lot of memories of him. I still remember that when I was doing my secondary schooling in Pune district, we came to know that the shooting of Naya Daur was going on in Jejuri. We all cycled to see the film. Went on the shoot. I saw Dilip Kumar for the first time.” NCP Pramukh told reporters in Pune.
Pawar said he has lost a “father figure” in the veteran actor’s demise.
Pawar said, “Years later, when I entered politics and started working in public life, a distinct bond developed between me and Kumar. During my election campaigns, he would come for one or two rallies. Were.”
The actor was active in public life in Mumbai and was therefore appointed ‘sheriff’ of the state capital (an honorary post), Pawar said, adding that as sheriff, Kumar took a keen interest in the city’s problems.
Pawar said that apart from India, Kumar also has a huge fan following abroad, especially in West Asia. “When we went to Syria and Egypt together, the local people, especially the youth, used to come in large numbers to see him,” he reminisced.
Pawar said that during the Indo-China and India-Pakistan wars, Kumar worked to boost the morale of soldiers and helped keep the country united after the wars.
“Recently, his health was not good. I went to see him three weeks ago. His wife Saira-ji was hopeful that he would reach the age of 100 but the journey ended today at the age of 98. But We all should be grateful to him for his contribution and I pray to God that his soul rest in peace.”
Incidentally, in his book On My Terms, Pawar writes of the “cool” in their relationship when he turned down Kumar’s request to be a little lenient about actor Sanjay Dutt, whom he was known for in 1993. He was arrested in the Mumbai blasts case.
“He was saddened by his close friend Sanjay Dutt’s discomfort and wanted me to be a little lenient. I turned down his request, citing strong evidence against the young actor. However, there was a certain coolness in our relationship after that. , the relationship between Saira Banu And my family remains warm as ever,” the NCP chief said.
In his condolence message on Twitter on Wednesday, Pawar said, “Sad to hear about the passing of veteran actor Dilip Kumar. We have lost a legend. Deepest condolences to the bereaved family and fans.”
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