The world of Indian cinema bids a tearful adieu to the legendary actor Junior Mehmood, who passed away on Friday, December 8, 2023, in Mumbai after a courageous battle with stage four cancer. He was 67 years old.
A close family friend confirmed the sorrowful news, stating, “He passed away last night at 2 am in Mumbai. He was suffering from stomach cancer and had been unwell for the last few days.”
Tracing his struggle, Junior Mehmood’s friend, Salam Kazi, revealed , “He was unwell for two months, initially presumed to have a minor ailment. However, his health deteriorated rapidly. Medical reports revealed cancer in the liver and lungs, a tumor in the intestine, and the onset of jaundice. Treatment commenced, but the diagnosis indicated stage four cancer.”
Junior Mehmood leaves a legacy of fine entertainment
Born as Naeem Sayyed, Junior Mehmood left an indelible mark on Indian cinema, featuring in over 200 films across various languages. His notable appearances include memorable roles in films like “Brahmachari” (1968), “Mera Naam Joker” (1970), “Parvarish” (1977), “Do Aur Do Paanch” (1980), and television shows like “Pyaar Ka Dard Hai Meetha Meetha Pyaara Pyaara” and “Ek Rishta Saajhedari Ka.”
His rendition of Mehmood’s iconic song “Hum Kaale Hain To Kya Hua” from “Gumnaam” (1965) in the Shammi Kapoor starrer “Brahmachari” remains etched in the memories of fans.
Junior Mehmood‘s journey into the world of cinema began at the tender age of eight with the film “Suhaag Raat” (1968) alongside Jeetendra and Mehboob, marking the beginning of a glorious career.
Recounting the moment that bestowed him his renowned identity, he shared in an interview with Rediff.com, “During the shooting, it was Mehmood’s daughter Ginny’s birthday. I felt left out and expressed my disappointment. That’s when I said, ‘Just because my father isn’t a producer or director, does it mean I can’t attend your daughter’s birthday?'”
The young talent then dazzled the birthday party with a performance on Mehmood’s song, earning him Mehmood’s attention. “After the party, Mehmoodsaab told my father to bring me to Ranjit Studio, made me his shishya by tying a ganda on my arm, and gave me his name. I was called Junior Mehmood from there on,” he recounted.
Sanjay Gupta, a prominent director, paid tribute to Junior Mehmood, saying, “You were an integral part of my childhood which was all about movies. Rest In Peace Jr. Mehmood. Many thanks for the years of entertainment.”
As the industry mourns this profound loss, Junior Mehmood’s friend Kazi shared plans for his final resting place, stating, “He will be buried in the same cemetery as his mother, alongside other luminaries like Dilip Kumar and Mohammed Rafi.”
Junior Mehmood leaves behind his wife and two sons, leaving behind a legacy that will forever remain imprinted in the hearts of those who cherished his contributions to Indian cinema.