Film comedian Mehmood is dead
“Hum kale hain to kya hua, dilwale hain”

The Indian Film Industry has lost a gem. Lovable comedian Mehmood Ali passed away over the weekend in the United States. He was 72. Mehmood had travelled to the US for medical treatment. His body has been brought to Mumbai for his final rites.

Born in 1932 in Mumbai, Mehmood, son of actor/dancer Mumtaj Ali and brother of character-actress Minoo Mumtaz, struggled to make his place in Mumbai and even did several odd jobs which included being a driver. Mehmood had worked in over 300 films over 30 years. Some of his well liked roles include Padosan, Bombay to Goa, Gumnaam to name a few.

The 26 years old managed to get his foot in the door in Parvarish in 1958 working with Shobha Khote and Raj Kapoor. He also worked in many south Indian films, one being Chhoti Bahen in 1959.

Not many will know that Mehmood was married to tragic queen, Meena Kumari‘s sister Madhuri and on the basis of that relationship, BR Chopra created a role for Mehmood in Ek Hi Raasta. However it was not meant to be.

Starting a career as a leading hero in films such as Chhote Nawab and Pyaase Panchhi Mehmood was not satisfied and went down the comedy path which won him much acclaim in films such as Sasural, Zindagi, Kajala and Gumnaam.

My most memorable film of Mehmood’s is Padosan, he played Sunil Dutt's rival in love for girl next door Saira Banu. Characterised as a south Indian dance teacher, I remember the “ek chatur nath” song competition which was absolutely hilarious. Unfortunately he didn’t win the heroine but won a lot of fans who will feel the same way I do that India has well and truly lost its best comedian.

Mehmood is survived through his eight children.

WITTEN BY PREETI CHANA