Actor Ravi Bhatia, who is known for his portrayal of Salim in Zee TV's Jodha Akbar, reveals that for his role he used to watch legendary actor Dilip Kumar, who essayed Salim in his superhit film Mughal-E-Azam.
He says, "When I was offered the role of Salim, I was fantasizing myself as Dilip sir. I used to watch him day and night, so that at least, I can portray something like him and impress my audience. Luckily, till date I'm remembered as Salim and I would credit all to Dilip sir. He was a great acting instructor for me." Also read: Dilip Kumar, The Thespian Who Rewrote Every Rule Of Acting In Mainstream Cinema Is No More; On His 80th Birthday The Veteran Actor Had Joked 'The Fact That I'm 80 Is Just A Rumour'
Ravi says he has learned all his powerful dialogue from the film. "No doubt, Dilip sir will always be remembered for his powerful dialogue from his evergreen movies. But I have learned a few from his role of Salim. They are close to my heart. I'm still watching his other romance movies to romance as perfect as him on screen." Also read: Veteran Actor Dilip Kumar Passes Away At 98 Due To Prolonged Illness
Ravi, who was last seen in Ishq Subhan Allah, is sad with the news of the actor passing away. He concludes, "It's a sad morning for everyone part of the Indian showbiz. We had actually lost a father figure. There is still so much for all of us to learn from him. He will always stay alive in the hearts of every Indian."
Image source: Ravi Bhatia/ SpotboyE archive