It’s been more than two decades since one of Bollywood’s finest, Mehmood Ali, left for a heavenly abode. Remembering the great artist on the occasion of his death anniversary, his nephew Akaar Ali said, “22 years since he passed away, but his spirit lives on. I was 10 years old then. It was a rainy afternoon when many had gathered out of respect, duty and love for me.There is Chacha“Mehmood, fondly known to many and remembered as Bhaijaan.”
Akaar Ali shares his fondest memories of his late uncle Mehmood Ali
Speaking exclusively to us, Akaar also shared, “I have vivid memories of his farewell that day at Mehboob Studio in Bandra. My father, Anwar Ali, played a dual role in his brother’s life, both as a younger brother and as a best friend. Both relationships came with a lot of excitement and responsibility. I witnessed many such encounters between them, which were ironically childish. Through observation, I was able to relate.“As he continued, Ali revealed a specific memory, when Mehmood came from America and brought him a special gift. “It was his wooden HEAD tennis racket, a vintage one that was almost 20 years old. I was then playing competitively and taking up lawn tennis professionally. When I look back, my heart is filled with gratitude because he enabled my passion for the sport then and continues to do so now with film,” recalled Akaar.
Akaar Ali shares his favorite movieThere is Chacha‘Mehmood Ali
Like millions of Mehmood fans, Akaar Ali also loves watching his uncle’s work on screen. He said, “He was so unpredictable through his performances that you better believe you will be on the edge of your seat. There was never a dull moment with Mehmood around. His films are timeless even today. Many of them are celebrated at family gatherings. My friends and I enjoy Bombay to Goa the most as it takes us into a world of our own.““It’s still the sweetest escape. You travel through the lens and become a passenger on a bus. It’s an unforgettable journey, and that, to me, is special. Whether it’s one frame or an entire film, he left his mark. His performances always added value to the film as a whole. He showed breadth and depth through his work and always kept it engaging for the audience.”Highlighting his other performances, Akaar shared, “From Ramesh in ‘Parvarish’ to Mahesh in rickshaw-wala in ‘Kunwara Baap’, his versatility inspires me. My personal favorites are a few too many. Even the kela wala in my father Anwar Ali’s film ‘Khud-Daar’ where he goes, “Kaaaayyyylaaaaaah kayyyyyylahhhh“it has a special place in my heart.”
Carrying forward the legacy of Mehmood Ali
Our conversation ended on the note – how Akaar Ali plans to carry forward his uncle’s legacy. He shared a very healthy response, “There is Chacha’s the legacy is unmatched; he doesn’t need me.”“Through my efforts, I will carve my own path. Bhaijaan always was, is and always will be. It is a once in a lifetime experience to be the son of Anwar and Mona. My parents are my source of gratitude. Through the ups and downs, we have each other; through those who are here and those who live in spirit. Bhaijaan’s legacy is for me alone. to celebrate for the world, he was the king of the comedy, and for me, my spiritual power. I feel his presence through love, joy and devotion,” he concluded.