6th June 2023, Mumbai: In a heart-wrenching turn of events, veteran Bollywood actor Sunil Dutt found himself shaken to the core when his son, Sanjay Dutt, was handcuffed and taken into custody in connection with the 1993 serial bombings. On the occasion of Sunil Dutt’s 94th birth anniversary, we reflect on the deep impact this event had on the late actor and how it forever changed him.
Sunil Dutt, renowned for both his acting prowess and his compassionate way of life, was not just a father but also a pillar of strength for his three children – Sanjay Dutt, Priya Dutt, and Namrata Dutt. However, it was Sanjay’s turbulent journey that put Sunil Dutt’s unwavering support and love to the ultimate test.
As the news of Sanjay’s arrest sent shockwaves throughout the nation, it was Sunil Dutt who stood firmly by his son’s side. But behind the scenes, the legendary actor was grappling with his own emotional turmoil. Reports suggest that he was on the verge of breaking down, witnessing his beloved son at his lowest point. However, it was Sanjay who consoled his father, assuring him that it was routine work and urging the inspector to put the handcuffs on him.
“He just caught my hand. He said, ‘Dad, this is routine work. Hey inspector! Come on now, put the handcuff around me.’ He took it so casually and genuinely told you, I felt very proud of the boy,” Dutt had revealed, highlighting the strength and maturity displayed by Sanjay in that difficult moment.
But the impact of Sanjay’s arrest on Sunil Dutt was far-reaching. Priya Dutt and Namrata Dutt, in their memoir “Mr and Mrs Dutt: Memories of Our Parents,” shared intimate details of their father’s emotional turmoil during that time. Sunil Dutt’s behaviour became increasingly erratic as he struggled to cope with the situation. He would sleep on the floor, haunted by the fact that his son was lying on a cold stone floor just a few miles away in the same city. His anguish and concern were immeasurable.
Sunil Dutt, known for his incredible ability to transform into any character on screen, found himself in a role he never anticipated: that of a distressed father fighting for his son’s well-being. His popular works, such as “Amrapali,” “Shaan,” “Padosan,” “Waqt,” “Mother India,” and “Gumrah,” showcased his versatility and talent. However, it was his unwavering support for Sanjay that truly defined him as a person.
Today, as we commemorate Sunil Dutt’s birth anniversary, let us remember the extraordinary strength, love, and resilience he exhibited during his son’s darkest days. His unbreakable bond with Sanjay serves as a poignant reminder of the lengths a parent will go to protect and uplift their child, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.
Sunil Dutt’s legacy as an actor and a compassionate human being lives on, forever etched in the hearts of those who admire and respect him. His journey stands as a testament to the power of love and familial bonds, reminding us that even in the face of the harshest storms, a parent’s love knows no bounds.
By: Tanya Chantola