Veteran actor Junior Mehmood succumbs to stomach cancer at 67

After a long and courageous fight against stomach cancer, veteran actor Naeem Sayyed, better known by his stage name Junior Mehmood, passed away on Friday at his residence in Khar, Mumbai, at 67.

Family announcement and statement

The actor's family sent a statement to Indian Express announcing his passing. The statement announced that Junior Mehmood passed away around 2:15 in the morning at his flat. Specifically, doctors diagnosed him with stomach cancer. They added that he deserves to have his soul rest in peace forever.

In a statement to the publication, Husnain Mehmood, Junior Mehmood's son, stated that they only found out about his stomach cancer when it was in its fourth stage 18 days ago, and he was admitted to the Tata Memorial Hospital. The hospital informed them that treatment and chemotherapy at this stage would be extremely crucial. According to the recommendation of the hospital, they should take care of him at home.

Film journey and legacy

It was with the film Mohabbat Zindagi Hai (1966) that Junior Mehmood made his debut as a child actor in the film industry. After then, he established himself as a popular actor in films such as Naunihal, Caravan, Haathi Mere Saathi, Mera Naam Joker, Suhaag Raat, Brahmachari, Kati Patang, and Hare Raama Hare Krishna. He also featured in Judaai, Geet Gaata Chal, Imaandaar, Baap Numbri Beta Dus Numbri, Aaj Ka Arjun, Gurudev, and Chhote Sarkar. During his brief time on television, the actor appeared in a number of series, including Pyaar Ka Dard Hai Meetha Meetha Pyaara Pyaara and Ek Rishta Saajhedari Ka. Additionally, he was the producer and director of a number of Marathi films.

After appearing together in the film Suhaag Raat in 1968, the late comedic icon Mehmood gave Naeem Sayyed the screen name Junior Mehmood. 

Funeral arrangements

The funeral service for the actor will take place today at Santacruz Kabrastan. Junior Mehmood is survived by his wife, Lata, as well as his two sons.