Guru Dutt enjoyed farming and caring for chickens, says granddaughter Karuna

Guru Dutt, one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated and mysterious filmmakers, had a softer, more personal side that his family remembers fondly.

Known for his intense work ethic and iconic films, he also cherished quiet moments away from the spotlight, especially at his farmhouse in Lonavala.

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On the occasion of his 100th birth anniversary, his granddaughters, Gouri and Karuna Dutt, shared rare memories of his life in an interview with IANS. They spoke not just about his career, but also about the man he was at home, a grandfather who loved nature, curiosity, and simple living.

When asked about Guru Dutt’s busy schedule and whether he could make time for family trips, Gouri recalled, “I think he would try as much as possible. Whenever he was away shooting, he would write in his letters that once the project was complete, they needed to plan something together.”

Karuna painted a warm picture of their family’s farmhouse in Lonavala; not a grand bungalow, but a modest, cozy retreat.

Also Read: Javed Akhtar reflects on his missed opportunity to work with Guru Dutt

“My father, Guru Dutt’s son, had such fond memories of that place. They spent a lot of time there. My grandfather would show the children how chickens hatch, and he loved growing vegetables. He always wanted to spark their curiosity about life,” she said.

For those unfamiliar with his legacy, Guru Dutt was a towering figure in the Indian film industry during the 1940s and 1950s. His body of work includes classics such as ‘Pyaasa’, ‘Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam’, ‘Chaudhvin Ka Chand’, ‘Mr. & Mrs. 55’, and ‘Baaz’.

Known for their poetic storytelling, striking visuals, and emotional depth, many of his films gained cult status after his untimely death at the age of 39.

This year marks a century since his birth, and the film world is celebrating his contributions in a big way. Six of his films, including ‘Pyaasa’, ‘Baaz’, and ‘Chaudhvin Ka Chand’, have been carefully restored and brought back to theatres across India.

The screenings are giving audiences, both old fans and new generations, a chance to experience his work on the big screen once again.