Veteran filmmaker M. M. Baig, known for his work in Hindi cinema and as the father of former child actor Baby Guddu, was found dead at his residence earlier this week. He was in his 70s. The news was confirmed by his publicist, Hanif Zaveri.According to Zaveri, Baig had been unwell for some time and was staying alone. Neighbours reportedly informed the police after noticing a foul smell coming from his house when he had not stepped out for four to five days.Speaking to PTI, Zaveri said, “He was unwell for quite some time. Since he hadn’t come out of the house for four to five days, the neighbours complained to the cops about a foul smell coming from his house. The police opened the door and found Baig sahab’s dead body and informed his daughter about it. They later took his body to Cooper Hospital for a post-mortem at around 1:30–2:00 am. He was a loving man. I pray for his departed soul.”
A career rooted in mainstream Hindi cinema
Baig began his career as an assistant director and worked with prominent filmmakers such as J. Om Prakash, Vimal Kumar and Rakesh Roshan. Over the years, he was associated with films including Aadmi Khilona Hai, Jaisi Karni Waisi Bharnii, Karz Chukana Hai, Kala Bazaar and Kishen Kanhaiya.He later directed Massom Gawah starring Naseeruddin Shah, though the film did not see a release. He also helmed Chhoti Bahu featuring Shilpa Shirodkar.
Mentored Hrithik Roshan before his debut
Zaveri also shared that Baig had a close professional association with Rakesh Roshan and had helped Hrithik Roshan with diction, voice modulation and dialogue delivery before his debut in Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai.“Baig sahab shared a warm equation with Rakesh Roshan sahab. He helped Hrithik Roshan with diction, voice modulation and dialogues. This was much before his debut film happened,” he said.
Remembered as father of 80s child star
Baig’s daughter, Baby Guddu — born Shahinda Baig — was one of the most recognisable child actors of the 1980s, appearing in films such as Aakhir Kyon?, Nagina, Pyar Kiya Hai Pyar Karenge and Aulad.
