Saira Banu remembers yesteryear actress Nanda on her birth anniversary, writes: 'Nanda Taai and I became like family'

Saira Banu remembers late actress Nandini Karnataki on her 85th birth anniversary.

Nandini Karnataki, popularly known as Nanda, was a celebrated Indian actress who graced both Hindi and Marathi cinema. With a career spanning over three decades, she earned recognition for her roles in films like Prem Rog, Jorro Ka Ghulam, and Raja Saab, Chaar Diwari among others. On the occasion of her 85th birth anniversary, former legendary actress Saira Banu fondly reminisced about her close bond with Nanda, sharing a touching anecdote in her memory.

Saira Banu took to her Instagram to share a collection of pictures featuring herself, Nanda, Dilip Kumar, and other close friends. In a heartfelt caption, she recounted the story of how her admiration and affection for Nanda grew over the years.

Beginning with how they initially met, she wrote, "My mother, Naseemji, along with Waheeda Apa and Sayeeda Apa, were neighbors at Nepean Sea Road for many years. Though I hadn’t seen many of Nandaji’s films, I had watched Chaar Diwari. In the early 1970s, I would occasionally see her at film gatherings with Waheeda Aapa, and we exchanged brief pleasantries. Years later, around 1980-81, Waheeda Aapa’s sister, Mrs. Sayeeda Rehman, invited me to inaugurate her flower shop at her home and requested a telephone line installation. Sahib’s office promptly arranged it. At the event, I met Nanda Taai again. She looked radiant, her simplicity shining through as always. By then, I had seen Jab Jab Phool Khile and a few other films. I couldn’t resist asking her, “You have your own special place with the beautiful roles and magnificent performances you’ve rendered. Why have you deprived us of seeing you on celluloid?” She smiled warmly and replied, “Thank you! You know, Saira, you are the only heroine who has ever said this to me. I appreciate it.”

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A post shared by Saira Banu Khan (@sairabanu)

Saira Banu reflected on the cherished friendship that existed between Nanda, Waheeda Rehman, Shakeel, and Jabeen Jaleel when she entered the film industry in the 1960s. She recalled hearing stories of their innocent fun, which were filled with warmth. Nanda had once shared how she took the time to mentor new heroes, helping them perfect their performances. However, once these heroes achieved success, they often neglected her. Waheeda had also expressed her own disappointment regarding this.

Continuing in her post, Saira Banu spoke about how their bond eventually grew stronger, with the group becoming more like family over time. "Over time, Nanda Taai and I became like family. She grew fond of my mother and grandmother, while I admired her mother, Sushila Aaiee, who reminded me of my own selflessly raising her family. We celebrated festivals together, exchanging visits and gifts. I still cherish a green-beaded handbag and sequined boxes filled with Sankranti sweets that Sushila Aaiee had given me, with the note, “Til Gud Khawa Ani God God Bola,” she continued in the post.

Saira Banu further shared that Nanda affectionately began calling her "Raja." Nanda loved the embroidered outfits Saira made for her, and after Manmohan Desai's passing, she only wore white. In March 2014, for Gudi Padwa, Saira sent her a white outfit. That evening, Nanda sent a heartfelt message, expressing her deep appreciation for the gift, saying it was beautiful and that she would wear it as soon as possible. They spoke at length that night, and Saira recalled Nanda sounding as cheerful as a bird chirping.

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As she concluded the long post, she recalled the morning when sge got to know about Nanda's death. "The next morning, Waheeda Aapa called me early. When I greeted her cheerfully, she said, “No, Saira, it is not a wonderful day.” She broke the devastating news of Nanda Taai’s passing that morning. I rushed to her residence and found her lying peacefully, wearing the outfit I had sent. The dupatta she had admired the previous night was draped over her. Nanda Taai was more than a friend; she was a sister, confidante, and a source of warmth and sincerity. Our bond, built on trust and love, stood the test of time. I miss her deeply, but her grace and memories will forever remain in my heart."

Nandini Karnataki passed away at the age of 75 on March 25, 2014 after a big heart attack.