Veteran actress Saira Banu extended heartfelt birthday wishes to Rekha, sharing a deeply personal note that celebrates their longstanding association, cherished memories and mutual admiration. Taking a walk down memory lane, Saira Banu recalled their days at Filmistan, their shared love for yoga and fitness, and the special moments that brought them together beyond the world of cinema.
She also reflected on Rekha’s admiration for the late Dilip Kumar and praised her timeless portrayal in Umrao Jaan, describing her as an artiste whose individuality continues to leave an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
In her heartfelt birthday message, Saira Banu wrote:
“Happy Birthday, my dear Rekha! ❤️
There is something very special about certain artistes who, beyond all the glamour and adulation that surrounds them, remain true to the very essence of who they are. Rekha, you have always held that rare quality, a beautiful individuality that has made you an unforgettable part of our cinematic heritage.
Ours has been a relationship that goes back many, many years, and it is lovely to see how, with the passage of time and a little more leisure at our disposal, we have found ourselves getting to know each other better.
Some of my fondest memories go back to our days at Filmistan, when I would be shooting on one set and Rekha would be working on another, quite close by. She would often drop into my makeup room, where the wonderful Dinu Endulkar, an exceptionally gifted makeup artiste trained by a British makeup expert, would be working his magic. Rekha would sit on the sofa, watching him work on my eyes, and say to me, “Saira Ji, I want to copy these eyes the way Dinu does them for you!” I can still picture her sitting there, observing every little detail with such interest.
Rekha always had the most affectionate admiration for my beloved mother, the beautiful Nasim Banu, our very own Pari Chehra. She admired my mother’s exquisite visage and the grace with which she carried herself. It has always touched me that she appreciated not merely my mother’s beauty, but also her bearing and her manner. And I must say, dear Rekha, that my admiration for you has always been just as heartfelt.
Over the years, our paths would cross in the most delightful ways, quite apart from our work, film screenings and award functions. Both of us shared a great love for exercise and yoga, and I remember those special yoga classes at the Sea Rock Hotel, many, many years ago. We would exercise together in a group, exchanging notes about the asanas; which one was beneficial for what, and how best to practise them. Rekha was so dedicated to her exercise, and I, too, have always had a great love for keeping fit. It was such a lovely way for us to connect beyond the world of cinema.
And whenever Rekha travelled with us on a unit for her and Sahib’s film Qila, she would come up to me and say, “Come, Saira ji, let us exercise!” These were the moments that brought us together behind the camera.
I also fondly remember the charity musical performances that Sahib would champion, bringing people together for a cause. On one such occasion, Rekha and I performed a song number together before an enormous audience of some 40-50 thousand people. With Sahib at the helm of these noble endeavours, there was always a larger purpose behind the coming together of artistes, and those moments remain very special in my memory.
I was particularly touched to learn of the admiration you have expressed for my beloved Sahib, Dilip Kumar. It gives me immense happiness to know that the values he held so dear – sincerity, simplicity and an unwavering commitment to one’s own self – resonated with you, too. For Sahib, acting was always an art that demanded complete honesty of the soul, and I believe that this honesty is what makes an artiste truly timeless.
Your portrayal of Umrao Jaan, with its delicate poetry and profound emotional depth, remains a treasured jewel in the crown of Indian cinema. You have brought such individuality to every chapter of your journey, and it is wonderful to see how audiences continue to cherish you across generations.
On your birthday, dear Rekha, I send you my warmest affection and heartfelt prayers for good health, peace and happiness. May you always be surrounded by the love and admiration that your remarkable journey has earned you.
Stay blessed, and may your light continue to shine, as beautifully and uniquely as it always has.”
A celebrated figure of Hindi cinema, Saira Banu is remembered for her memorable performances in films such as Junglee, Padosan, Victoria No. 203 and Hera Pheri. Known for her grace and warmth, she has often shared personal anecdotes and reflections on the artistes who have shaped her journey. Her birthday tribute to Rekha offers a rare glimpse into their longstanding bond, bringing together nostalgia, mutual respect and the enduring relationships that transcend the screen.
