Members of the Bollywood fraternity have paid tribute to legendary actress Zohra Sehgal, who died on Thursday at the age of 102. Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali was one of those who gave a moving statement on his relationship with Sehgal, with whom he worked with in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999) and Saawariya (2007). “My experience of working with Zohraji in the two films I did with her, would remain with me until I die,” says Bhansali. “She could create her own universe for each character without going into too much background detail. I certainly hoped to complete a hat-trick of films with Zohra Sehgal by doing one more film with her. I hoped she’d out-live us all.”
“I think I’m the only contemporary director who had the privilege of working in two films with Zohraji,” adds Bhansali. “And both the films Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Saawariya were made memorable by her presence on the sets. Everything else will fade.”
Amitabh Bachchan posted a tweet on his Twitter account where he remembered Sehgal, who played his mother in Cheeni Kum (2007). “Zohra Sehgal … she epitomised life, living and its zest .. a spirit that could shame a teenager, and a smile that lit up..the DOS.” In a second tweet, Bachchan posted the following: “What a journey and what an immensely loveable co-star! Prayers for her blessed soul!!”
Shah Rukh Khan also posted a tweet about Sehgal who appeared in his hit films Dil Se (1998) and Veer-Zaara (2004). “A journey of million miles overloaded with smiles. Even at a 100 plus I have yet to meet a naughtier young girl…..will miss you Zohra…”
Sehgal died at her home in New Delhi, reportedly from a cardiac arrest, as confirmed by her daughter Kiran Sehgal.
Here are some of the other tributes that have been posted as a mark of respect for Sehgal.
Karan Johar: “RIP Zohra Sehgal…..what a life….it’s that moment when you truly celebrate the end of such a legendary and glorious era….”
Priyanka Chopra: “102 n a legacy that will always be a part of Indian cinema.It was an honour to know #ZohraSehgal and to b a part of films while she was. RIP”
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi: “Prolific & full of life, Zohra Sehgal made a mark through her acting, which is admired across generations. Saddened on her demise.”
Dia Mirza: “102 years of greatness. I will always love you Zohraji. RIP #GrandOldLady of #IndianCinema #ZohraSehgal”
Shahid Kapoor: “R.I.P Zohra sehgal ji….”
Kunal Kohli: “#ZohraSehgal Rarely do we see a human being who’s face only reflects goodness & peace”
Farhan Akhtar: “RIP Zohra Sehgal-ji. Deepest condolences to the family.”
