Mumbai, July 13 (IANS) Bollywood stars who worked with Pran in films speak about their association with the late actor.
Mala Sinha: “I didn’t do that many films with him. But one of my major hits, ‘Dil Tera Deewana’ had me, Shammi Kapoor-ji and Pran saheb sharing screen space. It was one of my most fun-filled shootings. Pran saheb was full of anecdotes and stories about the industry. He kept me regaled throughout the shooting schedules. He was a gentlemen villain. Though he played villain’s roles, he was one of kindest and most helpful people in the industry. Always there for anyone who needed him. It’s amazing how such a goodhearted man could play such despicable characters over and over again. But that’s what being a good actor is all about.”
Raakhee: “I worked with him in a few films. Because of his villainous roles he was feared by the masses. But because of his clean, honest nature and passionate work he was loved by the film fraternity.”
Hema Malini: “It’s really sad that Pran saheb is gone. But then, no one is here on earth permanently. I did some of my biggest hits like ‘Naseeb’, ‘Nastik’ and ‘Kasauti’ with him. He lived a long and fulfilling life. I only wish the awards and recognition were given to him when he was hale and hearty and able to enjoy the adulation.”
Asha Parekh: “I was abroad. I’ve just returned to hear this very sad news. The last we met was when I took Morari Bapu to meet Pran saheb. Though he was very unwell, Pran saheb recognised me and greeted me warmly. We’ve lost another very good human being and a brilliant actor. When Pran Saab played a villain he filled our hearts with terror. I remember when I was working as child in M.V. Raman’s ‘Aasha’, Pran saheb showed up. I hid behind the sofa. I was so scared of him! Later of course I did many films with him, including ‘Mere Sanam’, ‘Jab Pyar Kissise Hota Hai’, ‘Phir Wohi Dil Laya Hoon’… He was a thorough gentleman and a very considerate co-star. Even if he had to twist my hand in a scene he would ask repeatedly if I was okay. He was extremely passionate about his work. We’ll miss him.”
Gulshan Grover: “Pran saheb gave dignity, star-value and a position to the ‘Bad Man’ in Bollywood. It is because of Pran saheb that actors like me could become stars and have a flourishing career by being bad. It’s a personal loss to me. He was like a parent. He provided me with encouragement, guidance and validation.”
