Ranjit, former screen villain, said: "I have just seen his body and I feel my memories [of him] have become fresh. He has left behind only good memories. I don't think there is anyone who hated him.

"He played his innings and I pray for peace for his soul.

"I used to meet him at the race course. I did not have films then, but he never made you feel that you were unwanted. He was very down to earth, though I was a struggler in the film industry.

"I felt sad when I met him last because he was in pain due to his illness. He had helped a lot of people in life and I felt bad to see tubes in his body. I could not understand why he was suffering so much when he had always done good to everyone. Let his soul rest in peace."

Jayshree T, actress: "I can never forget the dance I did with Mehmood bhaijaan in Main Sundar Hoon. The song was Naach meri jaan phataphat.

"Many say that bhaijaan was a good comedian, but I would say he was a good dancer too. He was an all-rounder. He was good with comedy, and at the same time he could make people cry. Like he did in Kunwara Baap.

"I met him before he left for the US. He was very touched to see me. He told me that he was happy to see me. He told me that the world has changed and people only meet others if they have work. So he was touched that I came only to say hello because of our old association.

"I was to meet him for an hour, but he made me spend the entire afternoon with him. It was only when I had to pick up my children from school at 4pm that he let me go. I will always remember the good times spent with him."

In the picture: Lucky Ali with Jaya Bachchan (top); Ranjit (bottom, right)