Shashi's passing has affected me deeply; I'm in no mood to celebrate: Dharmendra

“Shashi (Kapoor) is gone. And I am in no mood to celebrate. I’ve told my family not to plan anything for my birthday. Dil nahin karta. Shashi was younger than me. We were friends and colleagues and I always admired his work, as he admired mine. It’s heartbreaking when a colleague and friend leaves,” says a grieving Dharamji.

When reminded that Shashi Kapoor was in fact, suffering, Dharmendra says, “Yes, I know. The worst curse in old age is bad health. But knowing that a loved one is suffering does not take the pain away from your loss. That way I am selfish and very emotional. I want my loved ones around at any cost.”

Dharamji admits that losing loved ones is his greatest fear. “Every time a colleague goes, I am overwhelmed with emotion. Shashi’s going has affected me deeply. I mourn for the loss of a friend. His entire family, especially his brother Raj saab with whom I had the privilege of working in Mera Naam Joker, is very dear to me.”