Renowned Bollywood actor Junior Mehmood, recognized for his iconic roles in cinematic gems such as “Caravan,” “Haathi Mere Saathi,” and “Mera Naam Joker,” has passed away at 67, succumbing to a prolonged battle with stage four stomach cancer. Born Naeem Sayyed, the veteran actor had been undergoing treatment at Mumbai’s Tata Memorial Hospital and was convalescing at home before his health deteriorated, necessitating oxygen support. His close friend Salam Kazi, confirming the sad news, disclosed that Junior Mehmood had faced health challenges for two months, initially thought to be a minor ailment. However, subsequent medical examinations revealed an advanced stage of cancer affecting the liver, lungs, and an intestinal tumor, compounded by jaundice.
The funeral is scheduled at 12 pm at Juhu Muslim Cemetery in Santacruz West, where his mother is also laid to rest. Esteemed figures from the film industry, including Johny Lever, Jeetendra, and Sachin Pilgaonkar, had visited the ailing actor recently. Junior Mehmood, bestowed with his moniker by the late comedy icon Mehmood, embarked on his acting journey as a child artist in “Mohabbat Zindagi Hai” (1966) and “Naunihal” (1967). Spanning a prolific four-decade career, he graced over 250 films in seven languages, leaving an indelible mark with hits like “Brahmachari,” “Kati Patang,” “Hare Rama Hare Krishna,” and “Aaj Ka Arjun.” His television presence included popular shows such as “Pyaar Ka Dard Hai Meetha Meetha Pyaara Pyaara” and “Ek Rishta Saajhedari Ka.” Junior Mehmood’s enduring legacy in the Indian entertainment industry is deeply cherished by fans and colleagues alike.
