Says Mohammed Ismail, father of Slumdog Millionaire actor Azharuddin. Shashank Rao and Alisha Coelho find out that the child actor only went to visit his mother's hometown, to escape from the limelight and media attention
Says Mohammed Ismail, father of Slumdog Millionaire actor Azharuddin. Shashank Rao and Alisha Coelho find out that the child actor only went to visit his mother's hometown, to escape from the limelight and media attentionu00a0
ADVERTISEMENT
 |
|
lost and found: The news that Azharuddin Ismail had gone missing started on Tuesday, when |
His father, Mohammed (45), a TB patient and currently admitted in ward no 14 of BMC TB Hospital since a week, was surprised to hear that his son was 'missing'. "How can that be? I spoke to them yesterday and they are in Jalna, my hometown. In fact, they are to return today morning."
He added, "I met them four days ago when they brought me food. On Wednesday, a man came asking about them and told me they were missing. But, I knew they were in Jalna because my wife hadn't visited home for over a year since the shooting was on," said Mohammed, who works as a kabadiwala.
Officials from Fox Searchlight echoed the same story. "We have spoken to Azhar and he's fine. All reports otherwise are contrary," said an official.
The news of Azhar gone missing started on Tuesday, when ex-councillor Nicolas Almeida sent out a press release to the media announcing that Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail was lost. He mentioned that the mother and son had been missing since February 1 and that he feared they had been kidnapped. He even had lodged a complaint at Nirmal Nagar police station.
Even police officials rubbished Almeida's theory. "Their neighbours told us that the family was sick of the media attention and constant visits from strangers after the boy shot to fame. They probably left the area to get away from it. Also, none of the immediate family members registered a missing complaint," said police officer Rahim Sheikh from Nirmal Nagar police station.
'I'm concerned'
Meanwhile, Almeida maintained that he was simply trying to ensure that Azhar is well looked after. "I was shocked to see where he lived and I'm trying to ensure this boy's livelihood. In fact, even the boy's aunt was concerned for his whereabouts."
Concern from family members surprised to Mohammed. "My sister hasn't spoken to us for some time now, but she did wonder about where they went. I only want the well being of my wife and four children," said Ismail.
"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels 
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
