Naseeruddin Shah says Dilip Kumar didn’t do enough for cinema, left behind no 'significant lessons'

Veteran Bollywood superstar Dilip Kumar breathed his last on July 7. He was admitted to the Hinduja Hospital in Mumbai due to age-related problems. Senior actor Naseeruddin Shah was also admitted to the same hospital during the same time. Mourning the demise of the legendary actor, Naseeruddin Shah praised his performances and his contribution to acting. But wondered why Dilip ‘chose to play safe’ the way he did, despite being a star and immaculate at his craft. 

In a piece for The Indian Express, Naseeruddin acknowledged the ‘undoubted greatness’ of Dilip’s performances but questioned his contribution to cinema. “Some of those works doubtless will survive the test of time but, given the position he was in, it is more than evident he didn’t do enough apart from acting and being involved in social causes close to his heart,” Naseeruddin said.

“He produced only one film, didn’t direct any (officially at least), never passed on the benefit of his experience, didn’t bother to groom anyone, and apart from his pre-1970s performances, left behind no significant lessons for future actors; even his autobiography is but a rehash of old interviews,” he added.