Sharmila Tagore's Heartfelt Tribute to Co-Star Dharmendra
Veteran actress Sharmila Tagore has opened up about the profound loss of legendary actor Dharmendra and expressed deep regret about missing what could have been their final collaboration in Karan Johar's recent blockbuster 'Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani'. In an emotional conversation reported by Bollywood Hungama, Tagore remembered her co-star of seven films with genuine affection and admiration that spanned decades in Hindi cinema.
Remembering a Genuine Co-Star and Dear Friend
"We shared the same birthday. He was my co-star in seven films. I knew he was not keeping good health. But the news of his passing is still very saddening," Tagore revealed, highlighting the special bond they shared both on and off screen.
Looking back at their early years in the industry, she recalled, "We first worked together in 'Devar' and then during the same year in 'Anupama'. Two very serious subjects, followed by an out-and-out commercial film 'Mere Humdum Mere Dost'." She emphasized how effortless Dharmendra was to work with, noting that shooting with him was always a breeze.
Tagore particularly remembered Dharmendra's down-to-earth nature despite his massive stardom. "He was as effortless on screen as he was off it. He was never 'The Star' on the sets, always his natural self. There was nothing put-on about him," she said with evident respect.
The First Meeting and Lasting Impression
The veteran actress shared a charming anecdote about their first meeting even before they worked together. "Before we worked together, we met when I was shooting with Yash Chopra's 'Waqt'. I don't know in what context he was there. But I remember he was dressed... how shall I put it... not like a star at all," she recalled with a smile.
What struck her most was Dharmendra's genuine nature. "When someone complimented him, he hugged that person with such sincerity. That genuineness stayed with him," Tagore emphasized, painting a picture of the actor's authentic personality that remained unchanged throughout his career.
Missed Opportunity in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani
In a revelation that adds poignancy to her tribute, Tagore confirmed that she had been approached for a role in Karan Johar's romantic family drama 'Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani' but couldn't participate due to health reasons.
"I fell ill and couldn't do the film," she explained, expressing clear regret at losing what could have been one final collaboration with her longtime co-star. She shared that their last professional collaboration was in the film 'Sunny', where Dharmendra made a small guest appearance for his son Sunny Deol's sake.
Tagore also revealed a more recent connection, mentioning that she had spoken to Dharmendra about appearing in a documentary being made about her life and career. "He, of course, said very good things about me. I wish we had more opportunities to interact," she added wistfully.
Chupke Chupke: The Unforgettable Classic
Among their seven films together, Tagore singled out one particular comedy that continues to resonate with audiences decades later. "Wherever I go, fans mention 'Chupke Chupke' as their favourite. I am sure Dharmendra also got the same reaction from the public," she noted.
She shared a personal connection to the film, revealing that "When I was ill, I watched 'Chupke Chupke' and laughed quite a lot." Tagore praised the enduring quality of the comedy, stating that "It is a rare comedy that continues to be funny over the years. We don't make too many genuinely funny comedies."
Her reflections provide a touching insight into one of Bollywood's most cherished professional relationships, highlighting not just the loss of a great actor but the end of an era in Indian cinema.
