New Delhi: In the annals of Indian cinema, few films have left an indelible mark on both the audience and the careers of those involved. One such timeless classic is “PADOSAN,” a cinematic gem cherished by fans of all ages. Reflecting on her cherished memories from the making of the film, Banu delved into the delightful behind-the-scenes anecdotes, expressing gratitude for the togetherness shared with co-stars like Mehmood Bhai, Sunil Dutt, and Kishore Kumar.
As she fondly recounted the laughter-filled moments during the shoot and the film’s enduring impact, Banu paid a touching tribute to Mehmood Bhai, reminiscing about his unparalleled comic timing and unique contributions to the world of Hindi cinema. The actress also highlighted the film’s significance, not only as a cinematic gem but as a source of joy and solace for fans facing challenging times. In her post, Banu’s words resonate with warmth, nostalgia, and a deep appreciation for the everlasting magic of “Padosan.”
Taking to Instagram, Saira Banu shared a post with a caption “We are talking about one of the most favourite films of my career —mine and the public in general. It is ‘PADOSAN’ , a film for all occasions and a film for all ages. I am so happy that I did this because I had almost refused any work soon after my marriage. It was understood that I would not be carrying on with a professional career”.
“It was then that Mehmood Bhai, as he had earlier approached me for this film, came running to Dilip Sahib, hugged him close, and kept saying in a rhetorical tone “Yousuf Bhai you have to let Saira do this film for me. I will not let go of you until you say yes — please please” — Sahab was tickled to the bone and kept repeating laughingly “Mehmood it is entirely up to Saira …. You have to convince her. You have my absolute permission”
“The whole industry knew that just then Dilip Sahab had shifted his venue of shooting and film work to the South and Mehmood very considerately committed to Sahib that he would shoot the film in Madras with me to facilitate Sahib and I being together. This was the “Cherry on the Cake” and I said “Yes to ‘PADOSAN”. I am so happy that unlike the dozens of films that I let go at that time “PADOSAN” and “PURAB AUR PASCHIM”, were not one of them”.
“Mehmood Bhai shared scenes from the Tamil version of “PADOSAN,” and I laughed my guts out. We started shooting in Madras, and goodness it was an incredible gathering of comedians, creating history with this film. The cast was so perfectly chosen that even I was initially surprised to see Sunil Dutt as a simpleton “Gaonwalla”, I mean who could have imagined it ever? Dutt Saab would humorously say, “Sairaji Yeh Kyaa Hain, Yeh Hum Kyaa Kar Rahein Hain? Hamein Toh ‘Anthony and Cleopatra’ May Kaam Karna Chahiye, Something Romantic and Glamorous. Until “PADOSAN,” I hadn’t worked with Dutt Saab, who turned out to be lively and funny. On the contrary, Kishore Kumar was a very subdued gentlemanly star who would get up from his seat respectfully as soon as any Lady walked in. The shooting was a killer. I used to laugh uncontrollably so much that the Unit would turn off all the lights and say “Ruk Jao, Abhi Madam Hass Rahin Hain”. Now imagine, It was that difficult for me to stop”.