Mangal Dhillon was not only a co-actor but also a good friend of my husband: Kruttika Desai

Kruttika Desai, who has been working in films and TV since the late 80s, recalls her memories of working with the late actor Mangal Dhillon, who passed away on Sunday. She was his co-actor not only in Buniyaad but also Noorjahan, a TV show directed by her late husband and actor Imtiaz Khan.

Kruttika said, "Mangal was not only a co-actor but a friend, too. He used to be more in touch with Immi (Imtiaz Khan) as they had been friends for many years. Mangal played my father-in-law in Noorjahan and the show was directed by Immi. I played Milind Sonam's wife in the show. We have known each other for many years. We used to exchange messages on birthdays or special occasions. It is sad that he is no longer with us now."

Kruttika added, "He used to work hard at his craft and it was a great experience working with him. In Buniyaad, too, he had a good role."

Mangal Dhillon had been unwell for the past few months and was undergoing treatment at a hospital in Ludhiana. Actor Yashpal Sharma shared the news on social media about his demise. Dhillon started his career with theatre and later moved on to acting in films like Khoon Bhari Maang, Vishwatma, Dayavan and Train To Pakistan, among others. He was also seen in TV shows such as Buniyaad and Junoon. The actor, who was known for his baritone, played diverse roles during his career.

Kruttika is currently seen in Pandya Store.