Legendary actor Mahmood once described himself as both a true Muslim and a devoted follower of Lord Shiva. His deep connection with Shiva traces back to a mysterious and powerful incident from his childhood — a story that still resonates with many. On the occasion of Mahmood Saheb’s birth anniversary, let’s revisit this remarkable tale.
It’s no coincidence that this time of year is sacred for Shiva devotees, who walk miles to collect Gangajal during the Kanwar Yatra. Mahmood, too, shared a similar devotion. In an interview with writer Hanif Zaveri, featured in the biography “Mehmood: A Man of Many Moods,” Mahmood opened up about this spiritual bond.
From a young age, Mahmood felt an inexplicable connection with Lord Shiva — as though he had received Shiva’s blessings. Interestingly, one of Shiva’s names is Mahesh, and in several of his hit films, Mahmood’s character was also named Mahesh. Actress Shubha Khote once remarked that movies where Mahmood played Mahesh often turned out to be blockbusters — such as Chhoti Behan, Ziddi, Love in Tokyo, Do Phool, Naya Zamana, Tumse Achha Kaun Hai, and Kunwara Baap. Shubha Khote even told him once, “You are truly blessed by Lord Shiva.”
Mahmood also shared a vivid childhood dream with Hanif Zaveri: He dreamt he was standing on the roadside near a pole when suddenly, Lord Shiva appeared, approaching him. Everyone in Shiva’s path was swept away, but when Shiva reached Mahmood, he picked him up into his arms. Mahmood woke up from the dream screaming — and soon after, fell gravely ill. That moment, though frightening, stayed with him forever.
Years later, when Shubha Khote reminded him of Shiva’s blessings, that childhood dream came rushing back. Mahmood became convinced of a divine connection. His faith deepened from that day forward.
At his farmhouse in Bangalore (which is still managed by his children today), Mahmood had both a mosque and a small Shiva temple built. A friend once gifted him a Shiva idol, which he lovingly installed in the temple.
Mahmood Saheb’s spiritual journey beautifully reflected harmony between faiths — a Muslim by identity, and a Shiva devotee by heart.
#LordShiva #ShivBhakt #MehmoodAli #ShivaDevotee #HarmonyInFaith
