By Tanveer Zaidi
Apart from being an actor, I have always worn another hat — that of an educationist. I run a school and a computer academy called Acti. Under its banner, we frequently organize sports tournaments, as well as social, cultural, and literary events.
It was during one such initiative that destiny blessed me with a memory I cherish to this day — the moment when I had the honor of felicitating the legendary Dev Anand with the ACTI Award.
The trophy was presented jointly by former Prime Minister V.P. Singh and me. As Dev Saab held the golden trophy in his hand, he smiled and exclaimed, “The beautiful lady!”
That single phrase, spoken in his trademark charm, etched the moment forever in my heart.
How did this magical encounter come about? Well, I have an entire screenplay-worthy story, complete with dialogue, but let me share a short version with you.
One afternoon, while sitting in my office, I was busy planning the launch of my new English weekly film magazine, Filmscreen. The groundwork was complete, except for one crucial element — the unveiling ceremony.
Though former Prime Minister V.P. Singh had already agreed to grace the occasion, I felt it needed the aura of a legendary cinematic figure.
Without hesitation, I picked up the phone and dialed Dev Anand. To my amazement, he answered almost instantly.
“Hello, Dev Saab, this is Tanveer Zaidi,” I said in a low tone.
“Hellooooo Tanveer! How’s life?” came his thunderous, youthful reply.
I shared the news of our magazine launch and humbly requested him to unveil its inaugural issue in my hometown, Allahabad. His response was instant and enthusiastic:
“Why not? I’ll be there definitely.”
I added that on the same day, we would also be honoring him with the ActiAward, to be presented by none other than V.P. Singh. Dev Saab, ever gracious, said:
“That’s wonderful. Please text me the details. I’ll send you a confirmation letter by tomorrow. I’d love to be a part of your event, Tanveeer!”
That phone call — and the trust and warmth it reflected — became a turning point in my personal journey with one of cinema’s greatest legends.
Dev Anand, born on September 26, was not merely an actor. He was an institution. A man whose six-decade-long career as actor, producer, and director gifted Indian cinema timeless classics like Guide, Jewel Thief, and Hare Rama Hare Krishna. Known as the “Evergreen Hero,” his style, charm, and youthful persona defined an era and inspired generations.
For me, meeting legends has always been more than an interest; it is a passion. I am fascinated by their life journeys and the wisdom behind their success.
This passion gave me the courage to connect with stalwarts like Dev Saab — and it is nothing short of extraordinary that he agreed to visit my city, Allahabad, simply based on one heartfelt phone call. That was the magic of our bond.
But Dev Saab’s story was not confined to the silver screen alone. His home in Juhu, Mumbai, was just as legendary as the man himself.
Built in the 1950s, long before Juhu became synonymous with Bollywood glitz, his bungalow stood in serene isolation. Locals used to joke that even crows needed a map to reach that remote wilderness. Yet Dev Anand saw beauty in the solitude.
The bungalow, nestled in Iris Park, became more than a house — it was a sanctuary. Shared with his wife, Kalpana Karti, and their children Suniel and Devina, it was a space filled with earthy tones, vintage portraits, plush interiors, and film memorabilia.
Unlike other stars who flaunted their homes in glossy magazines, Dev Saab guarded his privacy, allowing mystery to enhance his aura.
Over the years, he had to raise the boundary walls of the bungalow — not to keep out paparazzi, but to preserve his solitude from the encroaching city that grew around him.
Dev Anand’s life and legacy continue to resonate even today. His charisma, resilience, and innovation shaped Bollywood in ways few can parallel. He wasn’t just a superstar; he was a pioneer, a dreamer, and above all, an evergreen symbol of hope and creativity.
And for me, personally, he will always remain the man who answered my call, trusted my invitation, and graced my hometown with his magnetic presence.
The Article has been written by Tanveer Zaidi ( Actor, Writer, Educationist)
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