Aruna Irani

He was very formal when I first met him.

This was in 1970-71, when we acted together in Bombay To Goa.

He exchanged the usual pleasantries. We hardly had a conversation. He was definitely not pally then. Only after a while did he get friendly.

Amitji is as busy now as he was 10 years ago. But he was very humane. If you ever called his house or gave him flowers, he would always get back to you and thank you. He always returned calls, even though he was so busy. He's a very courteous man. Very nice as a person.

AS an actor, he is a legend. He still treats me as he used to while shooting for Bombay To Goa.. It's like we're still shooting for that film.

Also, when I worked with him in Bombay To Goa., he was not as famous. But now, even after he has acquired so much fame, he is still the same. He doesn't have any attitude (problem). If I were in his place the fame would have gone to my head.

When you know good people, you feel good about yourself. You want to associate more with that person. He has lived up to his potential; more than lived up to it. I doubt Amitji can ever be replaced.

Aruna Irani spoke to Ronjita Das

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