The iconic actor Jackie Shroff, known for his charismatic on-screen presence and endearing personality, recently paid heartfelt tribute to the legendary Dev Anand on the occasion of the late actor's 100th birth anniversary. Jackie Shroff's journey in the Hindi film industry was profoundly influenced by Dev Anand, a stalwart whose impact on Indian cinema remains indelible.
Jackie Shroff's cinematic journey began with the film "Swami Dada" in 1982, where he had the privilege of sharing the screen with Dev Anand. The experience proved to be a transformative one for the young actor, setting the stage for his rise to stardom. Recalling the profound influence of Dev Anand, Shroff shared, "He made it very easy for me. He would never sit idle, and he would act out for everybody. He was the perfect example of someone who is absolutely on his toes all the time."
The camaraderie between the two actors extended beyond the screen, with Shroff cherishing the moments spent with Dev Anand. He emphasized the late actor's work ethic and his relentless commitment to his craft, stating, "The time that was spent on set was the time I spent with him because he was always working."
Dev Anand's immense talent was matched by his warmth and kindness towards everyone he encountered. Shroff fondly remembered, "You would not see him being harsh or rude to anyone at all. He had so much love that you would have no other choice but to love and respect him back." Shroff also highlighted Dev Anand's unwavering positivity, saying, "Whenever I would talk to him about my past, he would always say 'Aage ki soch' (Think about the future). That’s the kind of positive person he was, and his positivity would make me and others feel good about ourselves."
Shroff shared a poignant anecdote that encapsulated Dev Anand's support and encouragement. During a challenging action sequence, the veteran actor's reassuring words, "Naya Ladka hai seekh jaaega" (The new boy will learn), instilled confidence in Shroff. The memory of that moment stayed with him for a lifetime and influenced his approach to newcomers in the industry, particularly his mentorship of Tiger Shroff.
Dev Anand once described his connection with Jackie Shroff as "spiritual," and Shroff acknowledged that he has been blessed by the industry due to Dev Anand's blessings. He went further, declaring, "Dev Anand is my God." This deep reverence was evident in Shroff's upbringing, with his mother styling his hair to resemble Dev Anand and his avid attendance of Dev Anand's morning shows. His journey from being a fan to a collaborator in Dev Anand's autobiography marked a significant turning point in his life.
Reflecting on his last meeting with his idol, Jackie Shroff shared a heartwarming memory. It was Dev Anand's birthday, and the two met at Aamby Valley. Dev Anand's excitement upon seeing Shroff demonstrated the enduring bond between them. Shroff cherished every moment spent with the legend, from the beginning of their association to the first script narration and the tokens of appreciation he received.
In celebrating Dev Anand's 100th birth anniversary, Jackie Shroff's heartfelt tribute not only honors the cinematic legacy of a legend but also underscores the enduring impact of mentorship, kindness, and positivity in the world of entertainment.