Saira Banu, who lost her husband, actor Dilip Kumar, on Wednesday morning, has expressed her gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his his tributes and his early morning call. Extending condolences, PM Modi called Dilip Kumar 'cinematic legend.' "Dilip Kumar Ji will be remembered as a cinematic legend. He was blessed with unparalleled brilliance, due to which audiences across generations were enthralled. His passing away is a loss to our cultural world. Condolences to his family, friends, and innumerable admirers. RIP."
Saira Banu in reply tweeted, "Thank you hon’ ble @PMOIndia Shri @narendramodi ji for your early morning gracious phone call and condolences. -Saira Banu Khan. "At the Juhu Qabrastan in Santacruz, Mumbai, Dilip Kumar received a ceremonial guard of respect. The legendary actor who passed away at the age of 98 was one of the greatest movie stars of all time. For his contribution to cinema, Dilip Kumar was conferred with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest award in the artform. He also received the Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian award of the country. Along with Shah Rukh Khan, he held the record for winning the most Filmfare Awards in the Best Actor category: 8. He also won the inaugural trophy in the same category in 1954.