After pack up, Hangal ji would be low: Rakhee Vijan

His contribution to Hindi cinema won him the Padma Bhusha in 2006 and his acting prowess was proven time and again through films like Sholay, Guddi, Abhimaan, Aandhi and Lagaan to name only a few.
Legendary actor A.K Hangal who carved a niche for himself in the Indian film industry, passed away this morning. With his sad demise, the entire country mourns him, especially those who had the opportunity to work with Mr.Hangal during the shooting of Madhubala-Ek Ishq Ek Junooon, which marked his appearance on screen for the last time.
As the 97 year old was wheeled onto the sets of Madhubala-Ek Ishq Ek Junoon (due to his ailing health), a sort of shine lit up his face. Recalling fond memories from their shoot together, actor Rakhee Vijan, who plays Roma on the show, reminisces about her shooting days with the actor, “I consider myself very privileged to share the last frame with AK Hangal ji on the sets of Madhubala. When I heard the sad news this morning, I was just telling my dad how fortunate I was. People can't get over his demise and he will be remembered forever”.
Talking about the memorable shooting experience on the sets of Madhubala, Rakhee shares, “He was brought onto the sets on a wheelchair because of his poor health. But I was so amazed to see that before rolling, he would call the make up man and ask him to puff up his face. He would look at himself so fondly in the mirror and would ask the make up man, how am I looking? And I would always tell him that sir you are looking fabulous! I was always standing behind him”.
“When Hangal ji would see himself in the mirror, it was a very glorious moment for him”. Adding, “He was full of energy, especially when the word action was said. He was so happy and zestful. On sets, he was full of life! But after pack up-he would be low”.
Although the actress could not attend his funeral, she will always remember him for his one dialogue that reverberates through generations even today from the iconic film Sholay, “Itna sannata kyun hai bhai!”