On Raksha Bandhan 2023, Saira Banu, the veteran actor and wife of the late Dilip Kumar, paid a heartfelt tribute to both Dilip Kumar and legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar. Through an Instagram post, she shared a series of nostalgic photographs that showcased the unique bond between Dilip Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar, shedding light on their cherished relationship. The accompanying captions and Saira Banu‘s note provided intriguing insights into their camaraderie.
The initial image depicted a touching moment where Dilip Kumar’s hand rested gently on Lata Mangeshkar’s cheek, evoking a warm smile from the accomplished singer. Lata Mangeshkar was adorned in a white saree, while Dilip Kumar sported a white shirt, a patterned tie, and a blue suit. The post also featured a clip from an interview involving the two icons.
Another picture captured Lata Mangeshkar ceremoniously tying a rakhi onto Dilip Kumar’s wrist. Both of them were attired in elegant white outfits. The final image, taken a few years earlier, portrayed Lata Mangeshkar offering a sweet treat to Dilip Kumar as they sat together on a couch. Lata was dressed in a floral white saree, while Dilip Kumar had chosen a comfortable kurta and pajama combination. Saira Banu shared that this was the last snapshot taken during Lata’s visit to their home.
Saira Banu’s caption captured the essence of their connection: “The Kohinoor of Indian Cinema, Dilip Sahib, and the Nightingale of the Music Industry of India, Lata Mangeshkar, held a bond beyond the glitter of their immense stardom. They shared the relationship of a brother and sister. In those glorious and quiet days of the past, this legendary duo found solace in commuting via local trains, often referred to as the lifeline of Mumbai.”
Saira continued, “It was during these journeys that they exchanged thoughts, shared experiences, and sought each other’s counsel. One such voyage led to Sahib’s guidance to Lataji on the essence of Urdu’s flawless pronunciation and the significance of nuances like ‘Nukta’ in enhancing word articulation. Dilip Sahib emphasized the mastery of spoken languages. Lataji, a devoted sister, diligently followed his advice and even enlisted an Urdu tutor’s assistance. From then on, her songs echoed flawless Urdu pronunciation.”
Reflecting on the unique ritual, Saira noted, “Despite their busy schedules, work commitments, and personal engagements, they always managed to meet on Rakshabandhan. Lataji would tie the sacred Rakhi on Sahib’s wrist. In reciprocity, I would send her a brocade saree of her choice as a token of appreciation for this beautiful gesture.”
Saira also recalled the instances when Dilip Kumar introduced Lata Mangeshkar on renowned global stages, such as the prestigious Royal Albert Hall in London. His introduction was characterized by simplicity and charisma, leaving an indelible mark on the audience. Thousands of records from the same event were later produced and sold to the public. Saira also recounted how many years later, Dilip Kumar introduced Lata Mangeshkar once again, this time at the London Palladium.
Concluding her tribute, Saira reminisced about the enduring bond between Dilip Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar. She revealed that even during times of illness, Lata Mangeshkar visited their home, sharing meals and memories with Dilip Kumar. The last occasion saw Lata affectionately feeding him by hand, encapsulating their profound affection. Saira Banu eloquently summed up their remarkable love story as nothing short of monumental.