Bollywood’s veteran actor Raza Murad on Saturday criticised the absence of eminent personalities attached to the film industry from the funeral of actor Mushtaq Khan, questioning why the members of the film fraternity could not spare a few minutes to pay their final respects to the veteran performer.
Khan, who garnered critical acclaim for his memorable supporting roles in Bollywood, breathed his last on September 24 at the age of 56. His kin laid him to rest at the Yari Road cemetery on Friday, and his son Mohsin performed his last rites. While several of Mushtaq’s colleagues and friends were in attendance at the ceremony, the absence of prominent figures from the industry made Murad’s hackles rise.
Raza Murad (Left) and Mushtaq Khan (Right)
Murad questions absence of B-town icons
Murad posted a video message, in which he was seen expressing dismay over what he called the ‘lack of attendance’ by big stars. Murad said, “He was buried yesterday, but sadly no ‘star’ came to pay tribute to him. Yes, his colleagues and loved ones were there, but no big face was seen.”
He then took a swipe at what he perceived as misplaced priorities, adding, “If it had been an industrialist’s son’s wedding, they wouldn’t just attend it, but serve guests like waiters. If a political party would summon them, they would go there also.” Murad’s remarks surfaced as a pointed reminder of the importance he believes the film fraternity should attach to standing by its members during their last moments.
“Fame, wealth never live long”: Murad
Murad then elaborated on Mushtaq’s contribution to the film industry, noting that he had devoted close to five decades of his life to cinema, but did not receive the farewell he deserved from some of the industry’s biggest names.
He said celebrities must stay humble and kind, underlining that fame and wealth are not eternal. He asserted, “Mushtaq Khan became an actor without bootlicking anyone. He was self-made. Neither did he need you when he was alive, nor will he after death.” He also noted that Khan had worked with numerous actors during his career, adding that they could have spared a few minutes to pay their respects.
Murad opined, “Remember one thing: fame and wealth are not permanent. Stardom will not remain the same. It is a phase.”
Colleagues attend funeral
Khan had been undergoing treatment for cancer and was admitted to a hospital in Mumbai. Among the ones who showed up at his funeral were actors Rajpal Yadav, Anees Bazmee, Sanjay Mishra, Rajat Bedi and Sunil Pal, along with various others.