Dilip Kumar once spoke about not having child with wife Saira Banu to carry his legacy forward: ‘We feel we are lucky to be there for…’ |

Dilip Kumar and Saira Banu’s love story is one of Bollywood’s most cherished tales—a bond that stood the test of time, loss, and life’s unexpected turns. Despite not having children of their own, the couple found deep contentment in each other and the warmth of their extended families. In a rare and heartfelt interview, Dilip saab reflected on this aspect of their life together, offering a glimpse into the grace and wisdom with which he embraced both love and legacy.In a 2012 interview with Hindustan Times, Dilip expressed that he had no regrets about not having children. While he acknowledged that having a child would have been wonderful, he shared that both he and Saira Banu had accepted it as God’s will. He emphasized that they never felt incomplete or lacking, finding fulfillment and contentment in each other and the love and support of their extended families.The late veteran star had further shared that he and Saira Banu found joy and fulfillment in their extended families. With a large family full of nieces, nephews, and their children, he appreciated being surrounded by the younger generation, even if their ways sometimes felt unfamiliar. Saira, on the other hand, had a smaller circle that included her brother Sultan and his children and grandchildren. Together, the couple felt fortunate to be present and supportive figures in their loved ones’ lives.When asked about who would carry forward his legacy, he also shared that he saw many young actors eager to follow in his footsteps. He felt a deep sense of gratitude and humility whenever a rising talent expressed admiration for his work and the path he had paved in cinema. For him, it was a blessing to have found success in a profession he had never originally planned for, and he was moved by the respect and inspiration his journey continued to offer to the next generation.Coming back to their love story, it was Saira Banu’s mother, veteran actress Naseem Banu, who played Cupid between the two. She introduced Saira and Dilip Kumar, helping them grow closer. Eventually, Dilip saab proposed, and Saira agreed without hesitation. At the time of their wedding, Saira was 22 and Dilip Kumar was 44.