Famous actor Sajid Khan, best known for playing the role of young Sunil Dutt in the famous film ‘Mother India’, breathed his last while fighting cancer on December 22 at the age of 71. The sad news was confirmed by his son Samar, who shared details of his father’s long struggle with the disease.
The late actor’s journey extended beyond Indian cinema and left his mark in the global entertainment landscape. His legacy includes notable contributions in the United States and the Philippines, where he left an indelible impact through his work in the film ‘Maya’ and his participation in the TV show ‘The Big Valley’.
Reflecting on her father’s life, Sammer revealed, “He was battling cancer for some time.” Khan was adopted by Rajkumar Pitamber Rana and Sunita Pitamber and was brought up by renowned filmmaker Mehboob Khan. Despite a period of relative inactivity in the film industry, Sajid Khan remained engaged in philanthropy, frequently visiting Kerala, where he eventually settled after remarrying.
“He often visited Kerala and loved it here. He remarried and settled here,” Sammar said, giving a glimpse of the later years of his father’s life. The last rites of the late actor took place at Kayamkulam Town Juma Masjid in Alappuzha district of Kerala, where he was buried.
Khan’s cinematic legacy is deeply rooted in his portrayal of young Birju in Mehboob Khan’s ‘Mother India’, a role that won him widespread praise. Apart from India, her fame also grew in the United States, especially for her role opposite Jay North in the film ‘Maya’. Additionally, she gained recognition in the Philippines, starring in films such as ‘The Singing Filipina’ and ‘My Funny Girl’ and expanded her influence on American television through her participation in ‘The Big Valley’. The global entertainment community mourns the demise of a versatile actor whose contributions resonated across borders.