A wave of mourning engulfs the cinematic world as we report the passing of Sajid Khan, the actor celebrated for portraying the younger version of Sunil Dutt’s character, Birju, in the iconic film “Mother India.” Also known for his international fame with projects like “Maya” and “The Singing Filipina,” Khan lost his brave battle with cancer in his early 70s.
According to his son Sameer, “He had been battling cancer for a while. He passed away on Friday (December 22).” Sajid Khan’s legacy extends beyond the silver screen. His life story was as inspiring as his on-screen characters, having been adopted by Rajkumar Pitamber Rana and Sunita Pitamber and later fostered by the renowned filmmaker Mehboob Khan.
His son fondly recollected Khan’s latter years, “My father was not active in films for a while and was mostly involved in philanthropy. He used to come to Kerala quite often and he liked it here, remarried, and settled here.” Sajid Khan’s final journey concluded at the Kayamkulam Town Juma Masjid in Kerala’s Alappuzha district, where he was laid to rest.
Khan’s acting prowess was evident early on, with his role in “Mother India,” which garnered international attention as the film was a nominee at the Oscars. He continued his partnership with Mehboob Khan, playing the lead in “Son of India.” However, it was Khan’s endearing role in “Maya” that truly catapulted him to the status of a global teen idol. In “Maya,” Khan played Rajji, a local boy, and the series that followed the film further solidified his star status.
In addition to his cinematic roles, Khan’s charm extended to American television where he guest-starred in an episode of “The Big Valley” and served as a guest judge on the music show “It’s Happening.” The versatility of his talent led him to the Philippines, where he earned heartfelt acclaim with performances in films such as “The Singing Filipina,” “My Funny Girl,” and “The Prince and I,” alongside renowned actor Nora Aunor.
Khan explored various facets of acting, one of them being his portrayal of a dacoit chief in the Merchant-Ivory production “Heat and Dust,” showcasing his ability to delve into complex characters.
His demise symbolizes the end of an era for many fans and industry veterans who admired Khan’s acting range, boyish charm, and the humility he displayed throughout his life. The international recognition he received paved the way for future actors of Indian descent, making Sajid Khan a poignant figure in the world of cinema.
As the entertainment community comes to terms with this irreplaceable loss, we pay respect to a man whose performances captured hearts across continents and whose spirit of generosity uplifted many. The story of Sajid Khan continues to resonate through his memorable roles and the charitable contributions he made off-screen, painting the picture of a man who was much more than just an actor—a beloved human being, whose light continues to shine in the annals of film history.
