Mumbai: Veteran Bollywood producer-director M M Baig was found dead in a decomposed state at his residence in Mumbai after neighbours alerted police about a foul smell emanating from his home. He was 70. The shocking discovery has raised questions surrounding the circumstances of his death, though preliminary information suggests he had been unwell for some time.
According to noted publicist Hanif Zaveri, Baig had been living alone and was reportedly suffering from illness in recent months. When he was not seen stepping out of his house for four to five days, concerned neighbours informed the police.
Police officials rushed to the residence and forcibly opened the door, where they discovered Baig’s body in a highly decomposed condition. Authorities immediately informed his daughter and shifted the body to Cooper Hospital for post-mortem examination.
“When the police opened the door, they found Beg Sahab’s dead body and immediately informed his daughter. Later, the body was taken to Cooper Hospital for post-mortem. He was a beloved person. I pray that his departed soul rests in peace,” Hanif Zaveri told reporters.
Career Spanning Decades in Bollywood
M M Baig was the father of popular child artist Baby Guddu and had been associated with several notable films in the Hindi film industry. He contributed to projects including Razia Sultan and directed Chhoti Bahu.
Baig began his career as an assistant director under prominent filmmakers such as J Om Prakash, Vimal Kumar and Rakesh Roshan. He worked on films including Aadmi Khilona Hai, Jaisi Karni Waisi Bharni, Karz Chukana Hai, Kala Bazaar and Kishen Kanhaiya.
As an independent filmmaker, he directed Masoom Gawah, starring Naseeruddin Shah, though the film remained unreleased.
Mentor Figure in Industry Circles
Zaveri further revealed that Baig shared a close professional association with Rakesh Roshan and played a role in mentoring Hrithik Roshan during his early years.
“Beg Sahab helped Hrithik Roshan with diction, voice modulation and dialogue delivery. He had deep knowledge of these aspects,” he said. Hrithik Roshan later made his debut under the direction of his father in Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai.
Investigation Underway
Police officials have initiated standard inquest proceedings, and the exact cause of death will be confirmed after the post-mortem report is released. While no foul play has been officially indicated so far, authorities are examining all aspects in accordance with legal protocol.
The film fraternity has expressed grief over Baig’s passing, remembering him as a soft-spoken and knowledgeable figure who contributed significantly behind the scenes.
