The ever-feisty Asha Parekh, who turns a year older next month, recently had a health scare which landed her in hospital.
"I was at home watching television when I suddenly felt an acute pain in my stomach and started vomiting," says the veteran actress, who lives alone in her posh duplex in suburban Mumbai.
"Luckily I have loyal and devoted househelp. They panicked more than I did and took me to the hospital where I had to go through several medical procedures. After the tests, I was detected with a stone in the gall bladder. Luckily, I don’t have to undergo surgery at this time," sighs Ashaji.
However, the larger question of the veteran actress’ well-being and safety looms ahead.
Says Ashaji, "At times, one does miss having family around. But otherwise, I’m used to living alone. And I have close friends like Waheeda Rehman and Helen to turn to."
Ashaji lost two of her closest friends, actresses Nanda and Sadhana, in the recent years. Her close friend actress Shammi is no more in a physical condition to look out for her.
"One has to manage somehow. Right now, I am unable to travel because of my restricted diet. I am strictly forbidden from having oil and ghee. I was supposed to go to Patna for a function on October 3. But due to my health, I’ve declined the offer," says the actress, who turns 74 on October 2.
Does she have any birthday plans?
"None at all," she replies, adding,"But I have one birthday wish: To remain healthy."
