Veteran actress Saira Banu fondly recalled her memories of actor and director Manoj Kumar, who passed away at the age of 87. In a heartfelt post on Instagram, Saira reflected on their shared experiences and her relationship with the late actor, as well as her late husband, Dilip Kumar. She expressed her admiration for Manoj Kumar and recounted some lighthearted stories from their time together.

Saira Banu remembers Manoj Kumar

In her tribute, Saira shared a video montage that included images of herself, Dilip, and Manoj, featuring both black-and-white photographs from film sets and candid moments behind the scenes. She noted that Manoj was particularly considerate of her shy and reserved nature. In her caption, Saira wrote, "Shortly after my debut film, I began to receive a multitude of offers. Among them was 'Shaadi,' a film that is particularly dear to me, where I had the privilege of being paired with Manoj ji for the first time."

Reflecting on her early days, she shared, "I was a very shy and reserved young girl at that time, often feeling awkward on set, especially during romantic scenes. However, Manoj ji, with his quiet understanding and remarkable grace, would step away from the set during my solo shots to help me feel more comfortable. Though we were both individuals of few words, there was a serene comfort in our professional relationship that needed no words to define."

Saira Banu opens up about Manoj Kumar and Dilip Kumar

Saira discussed the relationship between Manoj and Dilip Kumar, expressing, "Manoj ji held the utmost respect for our Sahib. Their connection was truly special, as they enjoyed cooking together, experimenting with different omelette recipes, flying kites, and spending hours engaged in sher-o-shayari (poetry). One particularly cherished memory I often reflect on is from the filming of Aadmi, when Manoj ji, perhaps unknowingly, started to mimic Sahib’s mannerisms. With a playful glint in his eye, Sahib gently remarked, 'Yaar tu meri tarah shots kar le, main kuch aur tareeka nikaalta hoon (You do shots like me, I will figure out something else)!' We all shared a hearty laugh; it was a moment brimming with warmth and friendship."

When Manoj wanted to shelve Purab Aur Paschim

She recounted how Manoj was determined to put Purab Aur Paschim on hold if Saira was not involved. "Sahib and I had mutually agreed that I would step back from my film career after our marriage. However, before our wedding, I had already committed to Purab Aur Paschim, where I was set to portray a Westernized girl opposite Manoj ji. When this topic arose, Manoj ji was unequivocal; he stated he would abandon the project entirely if Sahib did not allow me to participate."

"Later, during the filming, when I became seriously ill, Sahib himself informed Manoj ji that he would completely understand if he needed to find a replacement. Yet, in a gesture I will always remember, Manoj ji softly but firmly replied, 'I would prefer to shelve the film rather than cast someone else in Saira’s role.' Such extraordinary loyalty, respect, and affection—how does one even begin to express gratitude for that?" she concluded.

Saira shares fun stories

Saira recounts amusing tales. She also mentioned Manoj's wife, Shashi Goswami, sharing some lighthearted stories. "Shashi ji, his beloved wife, was very dear to us. A vibrant and talented woman, she was always brimming with life. She would often share delightful anecdotes about their daily experiences. Once, she laughed and said, 'Saira, if a bumblebee flew into the room, Manoj ji would dive under the bedsheet and ask me to handle it!' That innocence of his was truly charming," she remarked.

"And how could I forget our shoot for Balidaan at China-Creek? We were both handcuffed together, filming a tense scene where we had to escape from a dacoit on horseback, running barefoot through the water. In that scene, Manoj ji was supposed to heroically grab the whip and stand in front of me to shield me. However, as soon as the camera started rolling and the bandit charged with the whip raised, Manoj ji quickly ducked behind me instead! It was such a hilarious moment that we laughed until we were in stitches. Although Manoj ji is no longer with us, someone like him never truly departs. Rest in peace, Manoj ji. You were not only an extraordinary actor but also an exceptional human being," she concluded.

Saira collaborated with Manoj in films including Krishnan-Panju, Purab Aur Paschim, and Shaadi, among others. Manoj Kumar and Dilip Kumar also worked together in Aadmi.

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