HarperCollins India announced that it has acquired the biography of Sanjeev Kumar, one of most famous actors of Hindi cinema, and would release it next year.
Sanjeev Kumar (July 9, 1938 – November 6, 1985) has given stellar performances in several films like Sholay, Trishul, Yehi Hai Zindagi, Naya Din Nai Raat, Itni Si Baat and Ram Tere Kitne Naam, Angoor, and Hero.
Biographer Reeta Ramamurthy Gupta and the late actor's nephew Uday Jariwala have co-authored this book, which is a long overdue tribute to the actor known for many roles like Thakur in Sholay.
Krishan Chopra, publisher at HarperCollins said, “What is truly astounding is that a large proportion of the reported memories of actor Sanjeev Kumar are factually incorrect. For instance, unlike the hackneyed narrative that dots the internet, he did not die pining for love. On the contrary, he was loved dearly and ardently by many women – throughout his life. These and many other facets of one of India’s most brilliant actors emerge in this long-overdue biography.”
The book has been in the making for almost two years, with generous contributions from Sanjeev Kumar’s family and closest friends, who have shared hitherto unknown anecdotes in the book.
Uday Jariwala says, “In his lifetime, my uncle Sanjeev Kumar stood behind all of us and pampered us. He did not have children but he loved his brother and sister's children like his own. So many years after his death, all of us siblings have come together and joined hands with writer Reeta Ramamurthy Gupta to bring his story alive to the present generation.”
Uday is the son of Nikul Jariwala, Sanjeev Kumar’s real brother, the moving force behind the Sanjeev Kumar Foundation.
Author Reeta Ramamurthy Gupta says, “Sanjeev Kumar’s story is truly unique. It’s a roller coaster ride of emotions through which a ‘happy man’ and a ‘gifted artist’ shines through. Readers and cinephiles of today’s generation are sure to revisit his classics. I wish I had spoken to him when he was alive!”