Saira Banu Recounts Enduring Friendship Between Dilip Kumar And Sunil Dutt

Veteran Actress Saira Banu recently took to Instagram to share stories from her time in the industry. As Bollywood celebrates the 95th birth anniversary of Sunil Dutt, Saira Banu revealed a few stories about the time she and Dilip Kumar spent with him.

Friendship Beyond Fame

Reminiscing about the friendship Dilip Kumar and Sunil Dutt shared, Saira Banu provided her followers with insights into their bond. "Dilip Sahib and Dutt Sahab shared a friendship that was more like family. They were always there for each other through thick and thin," she said.

She added, "Whenever one of them faced a challenge, the other was right by his side, offering support and encouragement. Despite their iconic status and luxurious lives, they never turned a blind eye to the struggles of their fellow members in the film fraternity."

Their dedication knew no bounds. "They were always at the forefront, burning the midnight oil together, whether it was tackling industry-wide issues or facing crises head-on. Their dedication knew no bounds, whether it meant discussing solutions at three or four in the morning," she shared.

On-Set Memories

The evergreen actress then spoke about her time with Sunil Dutt on set. "There is an interesting episode during the making of 'NEHLE PE DEHLA' with Dutt Sahab at his bungalow. Coincidentally, we were immediate neighbours," she recalled.

She continued, "My make-up room was on the 3rd-floor terrace of the bungalow, from where I could see the activity of the 'NEHLE PE DEHLA' unit buzzing on. I would walk across the gate, go, and give my shot. When the shooting started and whenever my shot was ready, the Assistant Director would whistle so that I could come and give my shot."

When Dilip Sahib saw the constant whistling, he jokingly suggested, "a bridge should be built across the two walls for me to quickly go across into the shooting instead of walking the slope," she added.

Unfulfilled Projects

Saira Banu also mentioned the numerous films offered to her and Sunil Dutt. "Ever since we first met, Dutt Sahab and I were offered many films together, especially from the South, but unfortunately, the projects never materialized," she said.

Eventually, when they were doing "PADOSAN," Sunil Dutt humorously commented, "Sairaji, what is this? We are doing such comedy together whereas we both should have starred in a magnificent romantic subject such as 'Anthony & Cleopatra'!"

Heartfelt Wishes

Concluding her heartfelt message, Saira Banu wished her dear friend a happy birthday. "He was such a comedian that whenever we had to do any romantic scenes in 'NEHLE PE DEHLA,' Sunil Dutt would share the romantic shot with me but first tease me by calling out to his assistants," she remembered.

She added, "Happy Birthday, Dutt Sahab!"

Saira Banu's tribute is a testament to the timeless bonds and cherished memories that define the golden era of Indian cinema. It beautifully captures the spirit of camaraderie and love that Sunil Dutt and Dilip Kumar shared, reminding us all of the profound impact they had on the industry and each other's lives.