Bollywood actor Salman Khan says the camaraderie and bonds between neighbours in India is now a thing of the past.
The star made the remarks on the reality TV show he hosts, Bigg Boss, which has ‘love thy neighbour’ as its central theme.
“When I was growing up, not here in Galaxy [apartments, his home in Mumbai], but before that... there was an exchange of warmth between padosis [neighbours].
“Around 60 families used to stay in that area and people had a connection. Doors were never shut, we used to play around and in the evening, men of the house sat together and conversed. Women of the house used to talk about ‘What is cooked in your house?’ There was an exchange of food... the environment was quite different then,” he added.
“I think I am very lucky because when we shifted to Galaxy, we had the same kind of atmosphere. You know, behind my house, there is a colony called Virendra Colony, where all the boys were growing up together, had the same bonding,” Khan said.
“Though all of them are now working abroad, whenever they come back for festivals or vacation, they come back together. And you know, it’s like that cheerfulness comes along.”
Khan also talked about the connection he feels working with the underprivileged, saying: “I cannot describe what it is. You know, especially among children; I have been observing kids who are maybe not well... or disabled kids, they have a huge affinity towards me. When they wave their hands saying ‘Salman...’ I feel the connection. I love them.”
