I have always been a huge fan of Sanjay Dutt, or as I like to call him, Baba. His unique swagger and Hollywood-style dress sense set him apart from the rest of the actors in Bollywood. I remember seeing him at a film set many moons ago, wearing a sleeveless green t-shirt tucked into his blue jeans with a pack of Malboros nestled in the gap between his belt strap and belt. After his shot was over, he walked up the stairs to his makeup room with a cool confidence that only a rockstar like him could exude.
Despite his turbulent life of drugs and other troubles, Sanju remained my hero. Even when my friends teased me for liking him and said he couldn’t act or was a druggie, I knew that he was a star in his own right. Over time, he overcame his demons and made a triumphant return to Bollywood, but fate had other plans for him. He was again caught up in a dark phase of his life when he was arrested for possessing arms and sent to prison.
But even during these difficult times, Sanju remained a rockstar. He emerged from prison looking his best, with a chiseled face, long hair, and a great physique. He starred in some great movies during this time, including the superhit Khalnayak. I even had the opportunity to meet him again at the Michael Jackson concert in Mumbai in 1996, where he was enjoying his newfound freedom and infectious smile alongside his best buddy Salman Khan.
Salman and Sanju were both dressed in their signature tight-fitting t-shirts and blue jeans, looking like the studs they were. Despite the no-smoking policy at the concert, Sanju managed to get a beedi from a police constable and enjoyed it in a quiet corner. When Salman waved to him and jumped into the common section of the concert, Sanju followed him without hesitation.
The concert itself was a magical experience, with the local Bombay band Rock Machine warming up the crowd before Michael Jackson took the stage. For the first time in my life, I witnessed something truly mesmerizing as Michael moved and sang with incredible energy and charisma. Sanju was momentarily forgotten as everyone was captivated by the legendary performer.
As time has passed, Sanju has matured and evolved from the carefree and exuberant young man I knew, and while the childlike innocence that once graced his face may not be as prominent, his charm and charisma remain as strong as ever. Perhaps the responsibilities and demands of life have made him wiser and more grounded, but the memories of that unforgettable evening when I saw him in his element, jumping around and enjoying the music, still bring a smile to my face.
In the world of cinema, actors may physically age, but their legacy and impact can continue to inspire and entertain audiences for generations to come. Sanju’s films are a testament to his talent and passion, and they serve as a timeless reminder of his youthful energy and magnetic personality. As a fan, I am grateful for the joy and inspiration he has brought into my life, and I look forward to seeing his legacy endure for years to come. @iambollywoodbaba