On the joyous occasion of veteran Bollywood actress Waheeda Rehman’s birthday, the evergreen Saira Banu took to social media to share a heartfelt tribute to her fellow actress and long-time acquaintance. Saira Banu’s Instagram was graced with a nostalgic post that included a cherished throwback photograph of her along with Waheeda Rehman and the iconic Dilip Kumar, who was not only a celebrated actor in his own right but also Saira’s beloved husband.
In her affectionate message, Saira Banu expressed her adoration for Rehman, extending her birthday greetings with the words “Happy Birthday Waheeda Aapa.” Saira Banu’s bond with Rehman goes back a long way—to the days when both their families resided in the same apartment building on Nepean Sea Road.
Saira reminisced about her first encounter with Waheeda Rehman. It was a moment etched in her mind, taking place at a formal event in Mumbai where she first laid eyes on the ‘Guide’ star while eagerly awaiting a chance to see her future husband, Dilip Kumar, the chief guest of honor.
The event held in Mumbai was star-studded, and that particular evening became memorable for Saira. She found herself sitting amongst celebrated personalities, including Waheeda Rehman, the actress and poetess Tabassum, and the musical genius Shankerji from the renowned Shanker-Jaikishan duo. The compere’s task was to introduce the distinguished guests to the stage, beginning, of course, with Dilip Kumar. However, when Saira’s moment arrived, the compere stumbled over her name, creating an agonizingly long pause that caused her great embarrassment, as she sat perspiring nervously. Dilip Kumar then gallantly intervened, taking the microphone to introduce her properly, easing the tension of the situation.
Waheeda Rehman, known for her charming presence and poised demeanor, welcomed Saira Banu onto the stage with a warm smile. Despite coming from different backgrounds, with Saira’s London upbringing and Waheeda’s more reserved nature often alongside her sister, they connected, sharing fleeting moments of camaraderie during their school holidays in Bombay.
Saira Banu shared a touching anecdote about the time Waheeda Rehman praised her beauty following the success of Saira’s debut film “JUNGLEE.” Rehman had complimented Saira, declaring her a “Beauty Queen,” a statement which left a lasting impression on the young actress. Saira’s admiration for Rehman’s simplicity and down-to-earth persona was evident throughout her tribute, as she fondly outlined the minimalist lifestyle Rehman adhered to, even amongst the glamor of Bollywood’s Golden Era.
Saira concluded her post promising to share more about their shared past, hinting at countless stories from a period that was rich in cinematic history and personal friendships which have stood the test of time.
An illustrious star of Indian cinema, Waheeda Rehman’s journey in Bollywood began with her debut in 1955. She rapidly rose to stardom with unforgettable performances in classics directed by the legendary Guru Dutt, such as ‘Pyaasa’, ‘Kaagaz Ke Phool’, ‘Chaudhvin Ka Chand’, and ‘Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam’. Her dedication to the craft and her powerful portrayals in these films earned her the Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023, further cementing her legacy as one of the quintessential leading ladies of Indian cinema.
As fans and admirers across the world joined Saira Banu in celebrating Waheeda Rehman’s birthday, it was a reminder of the timeless bond and respect that endures between these iconic actresses of Bollywood.
