Filmmaker Milap Zaveri became visibly emotional and teary-eyed while paying tribute to his mentor and ‘godfather,’ the late filmmaker Sanjay Gupta, at a recent prayer meet in Mumbai.
Zaveri fondly recalled how Gupta had given him his first major break in Bollywood, entrusting him with the writing of the film ‘Kaante’ when Zaveri was just 21 years old. He described Gupta as a father figure who would forever remain alive in their hearts.
During the heartfelt gathering, Zaveri shared, “Guruji, he was always Guruji for me. I was 21 years old and he gave me ‘Kaante’.” He added a poignant couplet, “Jo kisi ke aage nahi jhukta tha, jo mohabbat dene se nahi rukta tha, woh Sanjay Gupta tha. He was my father. He was my godfather, my father. I loved him to bits.” Zaveri emphasized that Gupta is still present in their hearts, stating, “Yeh zinda hai hum sabke dil mein.”
Actor Rohit Roy anchored the prayer meet, also appearing visibly moved as friends and colleagues from the film fraternity gathered to honor Gupta’s memory. Sanjay Gupta’s wife, Anuradha, and their children were present, maintaining composure as speakers recounted his life, legacy, and the kindness he extended to many. Gupta, known for directing and producing films like ‘Kaante’, ‘Musafir’, and ‘Shootout at Wadala’, passed away on October 30, 2026, at the age of 59, following an accidental fall at his Versova residence in Mumbai, leaving the industry in shock.