Saira Banu reminisces Mughal-e-Azam premiere, says "People slept with boriya bister on Maratha Mandir pavement"

Veteran actress Saira Banu recently shared her vivid memories of the grand premiere of the iconic film 'Mughal-e-Azam' on her social media. Her post provides a fascinating glimpse into the excitement and grandeur surrounding the release of this historic epic, directed by K. Asif. The film, known for its breathtaking romance and spectacular visuals, took years to complete and remains one of the most celebrated movies in Indian cinema.

Saira Banu recalled the immense anticipation and excitement within the film industry and among moviegoers. She wrote: "When we talk about 'Mughal-E-Azam,' there is a vision of the great historical epic which took years for Mr. K. Asif to put together into an enthralling epic full of romance and spectacle such as never witnessed on the Indian screen." The anticipation for the film was palpable, with people eagerly waiting to witness the romantic saga between Prince Salim and the beautiful courtesan Anarkali, a relationship strongly opposed by Emperor Akbar.

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Describing the premiere of 'Mughal-E-Azam,' Saira Banu painted a picture of grandeur and opulence. She mentioned the "SHASHI FARMAAN" that they received, which symbolized the elaborate preparations for the film's launch.

The excitement was so intense that fans were willing to go to great lengths to secure tickets for the first show. Saira Banu recalled, "That craze of loving fans who in their expectancy to access the tickets to the First Show literally slept with 'BORIYA BISTAR' on the pavements outside the theatre 'MARATHA MANDIR.'"

The film industry itself was not spared from this fervour. For industry insiders, a silver-encased "SHASHI FARMAAN" was forwarded, containing an ornate invitation. The premiere's highlight was the screening of a spectacular print, ceremoniously placed on bejeweled elephants that royally transported the reels to the theatre. "Wow!" exclaims Saira, capturing the awe of the moment.

Apart from the grandeur of the event, Saira Banu shared personal anecdotes that added a charming touch to her narrative. She reminisced about her youthful excitement and dreams, hoping to catch the attention of her husband Dilip Kumar, whom she affectionately refers to as "Sahib."

She humorously recounted, "All this splendour apart, young and smitten by Sahib’s aura, little Ms Saira Banu, daughter of Naseem Banuji was building her own dreamy castles in the sand."

Saira's preparations for the premiere were detailed and heartfelt. She spent six days meticulously grooming herself, hoping to make an impression on Dilip Kumar. "I spent 6 Days in oiling and washing my very long tresses standing in the sun to get that glow on my hair and skin. I filed and re-filed my long nails, putting on every nail-polish that he would like—Pearl, Pink, and Ruby," she writes, capturing the innocence and eagerness of her youth.

Saira Banu's reflections provide a beautiful window into the past, offering a blend of personal and cinematic history. Her narrative is not just about the film but also about the cultural and social milieu of the time. She mentions how people from her neighborhood would watch her antics from their balconies and share in her excitement. Among them was Apa Sayeeda, sister of actress Waheeda Rehman, who admired Saira's long hair and nails and often complimented her look.

'Mughal-E-Azam' continues to hold a special place in the hearts of cinema lovers, and Saira Banu's post underscores the timeless appeal of the film. The movie's grand premiere, as described by Saira, reflects the extraordinary effort and passion that went into its making. The film's legacy is not just in its visual and narrative brilliance but also in the way it captured the imagination of an entire generation.