What better way to celebrate the birthday of the legendary actor Sanjeev Kumar, whose book ‘Sanjeev Kumar: The Actor we all Loved’ has been endorsed by PM Modi itself, than to hear the author who has compiled his life stories in a book.
The NSCI (The National Sports Club of India) and Harper Collins celebrated Sanjeev Kumar’s 85th birthday with renowned filmmaker Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and India’s favorite biographer Reeta Ramamurthy Gupta. The in-depth and heartening conversation was moderated deftly by Debarati S Sen, a consultant journalist with well-known publications.
The event brought together fans, industry experts, and renowned personalities to honour the iconic late actor’s contributions to Indian cinema.
Director-writer Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra shared his own experiences and reflections on the impact Sanjeev Kumar had on the Indian film industry. In his address, he spoke passionately about the influence Sanjeev Kumar’s performances had on his own artistic journey. He said, “Sanjeev Kumar was very graceful in his performances, he was not fighting for attention, not competing with other actors, not working for the limelight. I don’t have a favourite film – his body of work has always been my favourite- his silence, expressions, dialogue delivery, everything is something to learn from. For me, he never passed away, he truly lives. Even if he is not there, we are here 40 years later, celebrating him.”
Biographer Reeta who has been much appreciated for her earlier work ‘The Stranger In The Mirror’, biography of Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, provided unique insights into the life and works of the celebrated actor Sanjeev Kumar. Reeta said, “So many people wanted this book to be written. And when so many people are behind you then the universe helps you create something very beautiful. Sanjeev Kumar’s family is the force behind this book.”
The evening was filled with little stories, fond memories, engaging discussions, and a deep appreciation for Sanjeev Kumar’s immense talent. Fans and admirers of the late actor gathered to reminisce about his iconic roles, remarkable versatility, and the profound impact he left on Indian cinema.
Gupta summed up, “From having money to not having money, and to build something from that early age, it’s a story of great struggle, Sanjeev Kumar rescripted his life in that sense.”
At the event, the NSCI members along with actress Shilpa Mehta, who has been seen in many films like Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Delhi Belly, Ready and many others felicitated the celebrities Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and Reeta Ramamurthy Gupta. A silver plaque was presented to Debarati S Sen for her prolific work as an independent journalist and content creator.
