Dilip Kumar recalls memory, writes to Sharmila

When legendary actor and thespian Dilip Kumar heard about the demise of Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi on the television news, he recognized his friend and immediately called his secretary and dictated a letter, which he sent to Sharmila Tagore, the actress wife of Pataudi.

‘Tiger’ Pataudi passed away on Wednesday evening in New Delhi with his family, son Saif Ali Khan and daughters Soha and Saba along with Sharmila by his side. He had been suffering from a lung complication and had been in the hospital for over a month.

For those not in the know, the 88-year-old Dilip Kumar has been experiencing memory loss of late due to old age. He worked with Sharmila Tagore in films like Dastaan, which released in 1972 and was directed by the late BR Chopra.

This is what he wrote to Sharmila in the letter:

My dear Sharmila,

We know whatever we may say now will not lessen the sense of loss and desolation you are feeling deep within your heart now. Yet, Saira and I would like to let you know that we are with you in this trial of your strength and courage and we pray to the Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and solace to you and the children.

The happy memories of the times we spent in his charming company, the outstanding contribution he made to the game of cricket as the finest captain the Indian team has ever had. The times when he made us all proud with his brilliant batting and fielding in test series, the true royal way he conducted himself and endowed that touch of class to the image of our team whenever he led the boys. His refined ways and his total refusal to milk the game and get mileage for himself will always remain cherished in our memory.

When contacted Saira Bano says, “It is really sad that we have lost such a wonderful. We shared good times together in the past. Dilipsaab and I have written a condolence letter to Sharmila and the family. We have already received their thank you note. We will be visiting them in person at a later date. May the grieved family have the strength to face the loss of Mr. Pataudi.”