“Please Pray,” says Saira Banu

Worried, and yet in control of the situation, Saira Banu said, “Yusuf saab is on medication. It’s bronchial pneumonia. Please pray that he gets well.”

When told of her infinite patience in dealing with a spouse who has been unwell for so many years Saira bursts out, “What are you saying? I am blessed to get the opportunity to look after him for as long as I can. To be able to have him near me, to touch his hand, to feel his presence is a boon and a blessing. He could have married anyone; any woman he wanted. He chose me. I consider myself very fortunate. I always call him the kohinoor of the film industry. I am lucky to be so close to him for so many years. I couldn’t have chosen a better life. I can’t imagine any other life for me.”