Hindi cinema has witnessed many beloved child artists, but few have garnered the adoration and acclaim received by Junior Mehmood. Born Mohammad Naeem Sayyed, he earned the moniker “Junior Mehmood” from the legendary comedian Mehmood Sahab, who took him under his wing. Over his five-decade career, Junior Mehmood worked alongside numerous Bollywood icons, showcasing his talent not only in films but also on television.
Junior Mehmood’s journey into films is as captivating as his performances on screen. Today, we bring you some untold stories from Junior Mehmood’s life that have yet to be explored in his biography. Brace yourselves, as these anecdotes shed light on the remarkable life of Junior Mehmood.
First Story
Junior Mehmood embarked on his film journey as a child artist, achieving wealth and fame at a young age. Despite his early success, his adult career never quite matched his childhood stardom. His debut film, “Kitna Nazuk Hai Yeh Dil,” may have never been released, but Junior Mehmood received a significant sum of five rupees for a single dialogue—a considerable amount at the time, especially considering his brother earned only three rupees a day as a still photographer on the same set.
Second Story
In his debut film, “Naunihaal” (1967), Junior Mehmood captured hearts as Sanjeev Kumar’s mischievous younger brother, Billu. His distinct style caught the eye of Kamal Dance Master, leading to his casting in the film. Despite facing stiff competition during auditions, Junior Mehmood’s unique flair ultimately won him the coveted role.
Third Story
Junior Mehmood’s popularity soared, and so did his demand in the industry. By 1969, he commanded a staggering fee of three thousand rupees per day, a testament to his rising stature. With his newfound wealth, Junior Mehmood splurged on an Impala car, a symbol of success in Mumbai’s film circles.
Fourth Story
As Junior Mehmood’s child-star fame waned, he turned to stage shows to sustain his career. His stage performances not only earned him acclaim but also provided a platform for struggling artists, including the late Birbal. Junior Mehmood’s generosity and talent shone brightly on stage, earning him the admiration of industry stalwarts like Tun Tun, Rajendra Nath, and Mohan Choti.
Fifth Story
Junior Mehmood shared the screen with Dharmendra for the first time in “Mohabbat Zindagi Hai” (1966), unaware of the actor’s identity. However, their paths crossed again in “Pyaar Hi Pyaar” (1969), solidifying a friendship that endured over the years.
Sixth Story
Junior Mehmood’s association with Rajesh Khanna blossomed during the shooting of “Brahmachari,” sparking a lasting friendship between the two. Despite their initial meeting in Chennai, their collaboration extended to films like “Kati Patang” and “Aan Milo Sajna.”
Seventh Story
In “Sangharsh” (1968), Junior Mehmood portrayed Sanjeev Kumar’s son, sharing the screen with acting legends Dilip Kumar and Sanjeev Kumar. During their first encounter, Dilip Kumar encouraged Junior Mehmood to understand the significance of his name, imparting valuable life lessons.
Eighth Story
Junior Mehmood’s commitment to his craft was evident in his collaboration with Dev Anand on “Hare Rama Hare Krishna.” Despite scheduling conflicts, Junior Mehmood honored his commitment to Dev Anand, showcasing his professionalism and dedication.
Ninth Story
Junior Mehmood’s partnership with Jeetendra spanned several films, with “Caravan” (1971) standing out as a highlight. His portrayal of Montu, Jeetendra’s devoted brother, earned him accolades for his performance.
Tenth Story
Firoz Khan’s homemade Peshawari cold drink left a lasting impression on Junior Mehmood during their first meeting. This encounter marked the beginning of a friendship that endured throughout their careers in Bollywood.
These lesser-known stories offer a glimpse into the extraordinary life and career of Junior Mehmood, a talent whose legacy continues to inspire generations in the world of Hindi cinema.