Posted on: June 24, 2008 - 12:41 am
Prateeksha, Mumbai June 23, 2008 11:49 pm
Indore ! Oh ! Just unbelievable ! Had not seen a reception like this in recent times. It reminded me of the good old days when the enthusiasm and energy of the people and fans would always culminate in a frenzy uncontrollable and electric.
Thank you Indore and its wonderful people, that came out in their thousands at the PVR theatre and mall. Thank you for your spontaneous and incredible love. And thank you for allowing me to keep my dress in tact. There were moments in between, when I thought I would lose them !
Flew in this morning to Mumbai and went straight to the dentist and what a relief that was. My pain went almost instantly and the smile and joy it brought was instantly transfered to ‘Aladin’ at Mehboob Studio. Its a delightful romantic song that I sing, even though I do not have any love interest in the film. Ah ! But that needs to be kept confidential for the moment.
After the wrap on the shoot quickly looked in to Aishwarya at home, who has broken out into German Measles. She bears it with a smile, but I know she is in some discomfort.
Went straight for rehearsals for the Tour thereafter and have only just returned. So much nostalgia associated with Concert Tours. I think I shall write about it separately some day. It will be voluminous.
Did some interviews in between traveling from home to studio and attach it here for your benefit -
Date: Sunday, June 22, 2008 2:15 PM
From: sandeep bamzai
To: Amitabh Bachchan
dear mr bachchan,
thank you so much for taking the time off for this important interview at such short notice. the interview will appear in sakaal english tomorrow morning and in sakaal marathi on tuesday morning.
as you rightly mentioned, kindly don’t put it on your blog till tuesday noon.
with best regards,
sandeep bamzai
On 6/22/08, Amitabh Bachchan
From: Amitabh Bachchan
Date: Sun, 22 Jun 2008 08:25:08 +053
Sandeep,
Herewith the responses.
Do let me know when it will be out in print, because I put out my interviews on my blog. Ethically it would not be correct to do so before you.
amitabh
dear mr bachchan,
thank you for calling back. Listening to a voice that one has grown up admiring can give even a hard boiled a journo a thrill.
as discussed, i am attaching a questionnaire for your perusal.
we would like to run this interview in sakal and the newly launched english daily sakaal times on monday morning.
kindly answer these queries by sunday. we will be making a full page on this q & a.
here goes:
*you were born in allahabad, went to school in sherwood, college in delhi, have worked in kolkata and resided in mumbai for years. yet motives are being attributed to you and your identity. what do you make of charges levelled against you by organisations like MNS?
ANS//
In a free independent country, there are certain constitutional liberties that citizens enjoy. Every one has the right to express what they want to express so long as it is within the law of the land and within the edicts of our constitution. Charges levelled against me must conform to these accepted norms. If they do they are most welcome. My identity as a citizen of this country is very clear. I am an Indian and a very proud one at that. I will acknowledge the rights of others as they must mine. And I say, that my identity is not questionable. If someone thinks it is, let them take me to a constitutional authority that decides on it and I shall accept their verdict.
*aren’t you an indian first and last? doesn’t it pain you that questions are being posed on your indianness? when raj thackeray questions your identity, what are your thought processes?
ANS//
As I said, I am an Indian first and last, just because someone questions it will not make me change my identity. There are enough constitutional procedures to verify such accusations. Let them do that. I have no right to stop anyone from executing their rights.
*tell us about your relationship with balasaheb? it has survived the test of time?
ANS//
BalaSaheb has been like family to my family and me. From a very early date of my presence in the film Industry he and his family have treated me with great respect and love. My family and me have responded with equal respect and deep gratitude. That is the way it has been and continues to be.
*do you believe raj thackeray hit out against you because of your proximity to balasaheb?
ANS//
I have no idea. I do not entertain conjecture and speculation.
*after ram gopal’s aag, do you believe that he has redeemed himself with your gangbuster performance in sarkar raj. would you describe Sarkar raj as a re-defining moment in your tall career?
ANS//
Ram Gopal Varma is an exceptional director and a rare talent. Things can go wrong even with the most accomplished individuals. Ok, so he went wrong. Tell me one maker who hasn’t ever gone wrong in his career. But that is not to take anything away from his talent. What is most creditable is that he was able to accept his fault, get back up on the horse again and ride. He has done that with Sarkar Raj. Redemption is often linked to a sin that may have been committed. RGV has not committed any sin. He has merely proved that he is human. And thank God for that. For me I hope every film is a defining moment and Sarkar Raj will yes, remain an important film, as will several others in my somewhat extended career.
*For years you were typecast in movies made by prakash mehra, manmohan desai and others. these were formula films and one thought that creatively perhaps you were straitjacketed? the recent run with balki, ramu and other young directors, has it been a liberating exercise for body, mind and spirit?
ANS//
There is never any formula for a film. If there was, every one would be using it and succeeding. That it did not happen proves my point. Manmohan Desai and Prakash Mehra were very committed and great makers with whom I had the privilege of working. But I also worked with Hrishikesh Mukerjee and Basu Chaterjee who made films not to far left and not too far right. I am lucky to have been around the 40 years and to have worked with at least 4 generations of very talented directors, every one of whom have been an extremely liberating exercise for my body mind and spirit.
*you were wonderful in a movie called alap, do you miss doing a mix of roles in your halycon days?
ANS//
You are among the very few that acknowledge that film. I too enjoyed it, though many did not. No I did not miss doing those kind of films. The maximum number of films that I have worked with with any director has been Hrishikesh Mukerjee.
*the journey since saat hindustani is close to 40 years old, how have you dealt with criticism? you were a recluse for long and now there is a complete transformation in that you have adapted to the changing times and are writing a blog, how does it work for you?
ANS//
Criticism is very healthy and essential for the growth of any individual. I welcome it. It is a great leveller and teacher. I think your assumption of me being a recluse is wrong. I am not and never have been. Just because you did not hear me does not indicate that I do not have a voice. But yes, having the facility now of a medium that provides me one I am happy to use it. The transformation is in the minds of the media not mine.
*acting with abhishek, is there an element of catharsis of involved to see your son whose smouldering looks and acting remind one of you in movies like sarkaar and sarkaar raj?
ANS//
I look upon Abhishek as my son who is an actor. Why would I look upon him as one with smouldering looks that reminds me of myself. He has my genes and it gives me happiness to see him on screen. By your question I should be looking at every actor with smouldering looks as a catharsis. That would be stupid of me. We all do what is expected of us without drawing comparisons.
tell us about these two movies, aren’t they part godfather and partly inspired by balasaheb? it is difficult terrain, one that is fraught with controversy?
ANS//
The first Sarkar is inspired by Godfather. And RGV acknowledged that in the credit titles of the film. The second is not. It is a created story. I do not believe it is inspired by Balasaheb.
*you have chosen to become an ambassador for indian cinema, isn’t it a thankless job for there are enough cassandras within the hindi film industry, does it bother you this shahenshah vs badshah thingie?
ANS//
I have not chosen to become an ambassador of the film industry and I certainly am not one. But yes I am an ambassador of the Industry much like every Indian is an ambassador for India. I am brand ambassador for IIFA, an organisation that propagates and celebrates Indian cinema beyond Indian shores. Every film artist of this wonderful Industry is an equal and important quotient of this concept. Being a propagator of your country and its qualities can never be a thankless job. It is a privilege and an honour. And this Shahenshah and Badshah ‘thingie’ is just that, a ‘thingie’. It is a juicy story manufactured by the media to titillate and exploit. It has not worked I am afraid and the media insists on pursuing it because an acceptance of its manufacture would cause it to lose credibility, something the media guards diligently. It is a story that reeks of garlic from every pore – it stinks ! Time to get off it. For me Shahenshah and Badshah are the titles of two films, nothing more.
*creatively, are you satisfied with your recent work? how would you compare it with your golden age which kickstarted with Zanjeer?
ANS//
I would never seek satisfaction in my career, for it would stunt my growth and I wish to grow every day. I hope for fresh challenges and may god give me the strength to face them.
*you reckon there is too much controversy in your life lately - your friendship with amar singh, your association with SP in UP, MNS accusations, Nishaabd and Ramu ki aag - do you want to put all this in the past now?
ANS//
Controversies are a part of our lives. We must learn to live with them. Even though we may want to put them in the past do you really believe the media will ever allow us that liberty ?
*many years ago, you told me that you wanted the brand amitabh bachchan to be remembered like elvis presley’s, and abcl was to be the vehicle for this. where do you think abcl went wrong?
ANS//
I cannot remember ever being struck with such immodesty. I think it was said in the context of the formation of the company, where for the first time a human was being evaluated as equity. Building the brand Bachchan would reflect economically in the profile of the company, quite obviously. That was all. The company is stable and alive and no longer in the red. We are in business and in profit and continue to follow the vision that we started of with. Our way of functioning may have undergone a change, but we are not wrong anymore.
*your top 10 films - indian and foreign?
*your personal favourites - top 10 of your own movies?
*the five best directors that you have worked with?
*Five top leading leadies?
ANS//
All the above would be a very difficult task to ascertain and would require time and contemplation, something that I am sadly devoid of these days. My apologies.
with best regards
sandeep bamzai
editor
Thank you
Amitabh Bachchan
**************************************************
And another one from Subhash K Jha
Subhash,
Herewith the responses.
Amitabh
Have you ever resolved to take Sundays off only to find that an impossible demand on your schedules?
ANS//
I have during various stages of my career, taken it upon myself that Sundays would be off days – days to spend with the family. But never have I been successful in maintaining it. A schedule gone wrong, an unexpected hitch, a permission for a particular location only available on Sundays, a set that needs completion, but most importantly my own personal insecurity are reasons why the resolve has had to be abandoned. I have felt that if I am not working then something is obviously wrong with my career. Forced holidays, days in Hospital or the horror of my sabbatical loom large in front of me when ever I am questioned in this regard. So I work. Makes me feel all is well with the world.
*When you do have a Sunday off, how does your day start? And do you keep the day open or do you plan it out as you would plan any working day?
ANS//
The odd Sunday that falls in your lap when there is no work, is no different from any other day. The gym in the morning at 6 am is a must and then paper work thereafter. There is absolutely no planning, because it comes too late and too suddenly to be able to schedule anything. But I would enjoy a family lunch together, maybe a film in the afternoon or a short nap and in the evening have some friends over or drive the family down to an eating place. On days when family is not around, and this would happen often keeping all our busy schedules in mind, I like being alone. Just ruminating perhaps or sitting in front of my piano and pressing keys at will. I do not know how to play the instrument, but just the sound of the keys randomly played can keep one occupied for hours. The purity of a musical note is the closest physical feeling to godliness; at once so peaceful and uplifting.
I know you sleep frugally. Is it true that 4-5 hours suffice for you? Do you rest /sleep more ona free Sunday?
ANS//
My sleep is frugal because of circumstances. It is not a disability. There are commitments and schedules to keep, but yes when there is time available I do doze off more than usual.
What’s is your Sunday breakfast like? Do you prefer Indian or continental breakfasts?
ANS//
My breakfast is frugal too. I know I do not do justice to it, but I am happy with it. There have been occasions, though, when if available, I would love an Indian course. Puri, aloo, parathas, dahi, idli and all the wonderful delicacies of the south.
Do you excercize on Sundays or take a day off to just laze(when not working).
ANS//
I exercise everyday. Though my trainer prefers that I take a break on Sundays. At age 66, if you are not mobile every 5 mins, you tend to stiffen up, so I keep moving – answer the door bell, get to the kitchen for your water, deliver papers to the staff rather than ask them to take it away. Things like that.
I also know you are a frugal eater when you’re working. Does a free Sunday mean a heart Sunday lunch with the family?
ANS//
Answered above.
One book that you’ve kept aside to read on a free day?
ANS//
I keep stocking up books. Read a few pages and then paucity of time makes me put them away. I have a corner where I systematically line them all up, knowing that not before long I shall be forced into doing just that – reading. Provided of course if my faculties remain in tact.
Do you watch a lot of films from all over the world? The last film that you really enjoyed and the one film that you’d love to see
ANS//
Yes I do see films. All kinds of them and whenever possible. Lately, I enjoyed the French film on Edith Piaf, the one for which the actress won the Oscar.
How much time do you spend with the family on a free day? That, needless to say, is your idea of a perfect Sunday?
ANS//
Yes spending time with the family is my idea of a perfect day, so I would like to spend all of it with them.
+++++
thank you
Thank you Subhash,
Amitabh
And this from Hindustan Times, which may never get published -
Princy Jain,
Herewith the responses.
Let me know when it will be published.
Keeping ethics in mind you are informed that this interview shall be published on my blog as well.
But I shall wait till you publish first. Do let me know when that will happen, or not.
If I do not hear from you I shall presume that it is not being published and I shall then put it on my blog with suitable comment.
Thank you
Amitabh
Hello Mr Bachchan..
As you had conveyed, via your text message.. here are the questions. Would request, if you could please revert as earliest as possible…
[questionnaire begins]
Sexy.. the term is associated with almost everything these days.. what according to you would be the best definition of the word ’sexy’?
ANS//
I find myself incapable of answering this question.
Mr Bachchan.. are you a vegetarian by choice or origin (family or religion)?
ANS//
I am a vegetarian neither by choice or because of religion. I used to eat meat, but just on a whim gave it up. Now I am a vegetarian and have been for almost 35 years.
What according to you are the benefits of being veg, both on a personal and larger level?
ANS//
I cannot say what the benefits are and quite frankly have never bothered to find out if at all there are any. This does not take anything away from benefits that do exist. Its just that I am not aware of them.
Over the years.. many people have switched from purely non-vegetarian to a true vegan. Any name that you can recall, whom you appreciate for the switchover?
ANS//
My father. And that was also not out of choice or religion.
You travel a lot.. has there been any occasion when finding a veg platter was intricate.. if yes.. then the way you handled it?
ANS//
Yes vegetarian food before the influx of Indian restaurants all over the world in large numbers, was a huge problem for me when I travelled. I managed with bread and butter and curds and eggs.
Are you comfortable in sharing the table with a non-vegetarian?
ANS//
Yes I am comfortable. I have no problems with that.
Who all in the family are vegetarian?
ANS//
So far only me entirely, though my daughter has preference for vegetarian food.
What is the vegetarian dish… you love the most that makes you sexy?
ANS//
I have no idea.
How good is your daughter-in-law Aishwaryra in cooking, especially the vegetarian dishes?
ANS//
She has not done anything particular yet, but she made some gorgeous ‘halwa’ when she came in as a bride.
Some more on films, your blog and your impending tour…
What do you think is the stronger pull for the viewers as far as the Unforgettable is concerned – the line-up of superstars or the Bachchan trio together?
ANS//
I do not look at the show with this perspective in mind. Everyone is equally important. The stars the musicians the technical everyone.
The tour rides high on innovative ideas like, televised series and the interactive website. With such prominent names involved.. how significant do you think these ideas would be?
ANS//
This should be addressed to Wizcraft, the managers who will run the show.
While the unforgettable begins in July, SRK has announced his tour in June. Do you think he intends to pre-empt your tour?
ANS//
Why would he want to do that ? Our timings are different to the others and there is space for all. Unlike what the media perceives, our fraternity is a close , friendly and integrated community. Why do you not question the intentions of other media houses when they conduct Award functions every year around the same period. Do you think they want to pre-empt each other ? Of course not. Each has its value and importance and patronage. Its no different between artists concert tours as well.
About Sarkar Raj.. there has been a divided opinion about the film. Your reaction to it? (I have read the bit on your blog, but if something more you can please add)
ANS//
I have nothing more to add. The figures are there for all to see and assess. The numbers are as follows : The film has been bought by Balaji world wide for 36.5cr. The recovery upto the second week end is 66cr. For a film of this genre, without any song and dance, and a grim dark film, this business is remarkable. It signifies the change in tastes of audiences all over. The audiences must be thanked.
If I may request, the seasoned actor and a senior Amitabh Bachchan, to choose a better performer, between Abhishek and Aishwarya, in the film Sarkar Raj… who would be that be?
ANS//
They have both performed equally well. In a film project no one actor is better than the other. They are all equal. What is supreme is the script and the director. Nothing else matters. Anyone who looks at a film with the intent of which actor was better than the other, is on the wrong path.
Lastly.. how addictive do you think blogging is.. and how are you enjoying the experience?
ANS//
I am enjoying the experience. Not so much in the writing, as in reading the responses from fellow bloggers. They are phenomenal. Each one of them. So intelligent and perceptive. I learn so much from them. Its an entire education for me.
[questionnaire ends]
Thanks
Princy Jain
Principal Correspondent
HT City, Hindustan Times
Delhi
Thank you
Amitabh Bachchan
Good Night and God bless you -
Namaskar, Shabba Khair, Shubh Ratri, Sat sri Akal -
Amitabh Bachchan
i am addict to your blog its great to be with u
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Hats off to you and your energy….is it that the more power you get the more energetic you become?? You seem to get younger day by day… keep it up but dont become sooo young that you start fighting like a naughty boy…LOL
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Dear Sir
I don’t know about blogs how it work, I had sent you my comments today and found it in some previous date. Abhi to shurat hai… take good care of yourself.
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Hi Amitji,
U r the sweetest blogger on earth. So so so so so so so so so so sweet…
Love and regards,
Rajini
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Big B,
i again dare but it’s ur love that i want to ask, why do you only give interviews to the leading scribes… at times some new n aspiring should also be blessed n graced with ur views.
apologies if was too personal,
viresh
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Hey Amitji, U know there’s only one sentence on ur blog that I bet, no body likes……..Guess which one……..?? Guess Guess………….
“Your comment is awaiting moderation.”
To the Moderator: Oye! Kaun hai bhey tu???????? Jaldi jaldi kar na, yeh moderation voderation
Regds,
Rajini
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Love u Love U Love U
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NAMASTE AMITABH JI
HOW ARE YOU,,WHEN THE ALLADIN WIIL BE READY TO HIT THE THEATER.
SIR U DIDN’T REPLY FOR MY LAST POST,,GV MY REGARDS TO AISHWARYA JI,,
PLEASE DO REPLY
LOTS OF LOVE
ANKIT
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Hmmm…
I saw an interview of Urs and Aishwarya.
U are so apt at giving ‘em that u know the questions before they are asked and reply in such a way that an interviewier need to dwell deep before asking the next question.
My father is itching to see Sarkaar Raj.
I dont know when he will but will get him the tickets as soon as he is free.
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Sir,
I am amazed by the questions that come to you and more importantly by your patience in answering them as well. Veg v/s non-veg; does your daughter-in-law cook and how? Wow! Our journalists do ask some piercing questions to you……such earth shattering topics to ask of Amitabh Bachchan. But then again I guess each has a job to do and each has to find an angle not explored by other journalists and media competitors. Added to the fact that Amitabh Bachchan does not comment on politics!
Given the fact that journalists boycotted you in earlier years and that now they seem to want to find controversies, do you have any friends in journalist land? Any person that you can call upon at any time, not as a media person but as a personal friend and know that he/she will not share the views expressed over a bottle of wine in the media?
And on a more ‘earth shattering’ question, how would Amitabh Bachchan describe friendship?
With respect,
Kaushal V
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Hi Amit Sir…
Good Afternoon
have a nice day!!!
love u as always.
Amit pandey
hyd
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Dear Mr. Bachchan,
Saw you on TV coping with the crowds. I wish when i get old(I m currently 37), i am as young as you are and as energetic as you appear to be; as intellectual as you talk and as acceptable as you are!
Old Age brings different & bad things to ppl, I have seen almost everyone suffering at that age and beyond.
God Bless you and wish you a good life ahead!
Dote on you! Warm Regards, Harish
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hello amit ji
its been a long time i didn’t read ur blog so i hv so many blogs to read.. i m reading all those one by one.. i listened abt ur indore visit… it was really electric..but its not indor’s love for u ..its indian’s love for u…..wherever in india , u go, love follows…………….hahahahhaaaaaa
any ways take care ……..m gng back to read ur remaining blogs… i really like it.
bye bye
but one thgng more ….AAP KABHI TO REPLY KARIYE……M WAITING WAITING WAITING WAITING WAITING WAITING WAITING WAITING WAITING WAITING……………………
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Hi,
Thanks for your 61 post….I was waiting to read it since morning. It has become a routine for me. I miss something from my routine untill I read your blog.
Well nice to know that your tooth ache is gone. Now you can enjoy your shooting.
hmm…I dream to meet you sometime….Lets see the strenght and power of my dream.
Take care and have a nice day.
Happy Shooting.
Rachna Mittal
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couldn’t find a word to describe the feeling, reading you daily, feeling in personal. Yes, today i can empathize with all who get nervous while sharing a frame with you. long live legend AB.
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Sir,
It is really wonderful to read the interviews time and again, though I personally feel that sometimes the answers get repeated mainly due to lack of varieties in the questionnaires.
Regarding your opinion on vegeterian by choice, I want to convey you my heartfelt gratitude because your strong resolution to become a vegeterian has also prompted me to become a vegan . And it is needless to say that I am reaping the benefits of it.
Lastly, I would like to say that not only in Indore but all over India You still receive and will continue to receive the mass adulation.
Thanking You,
Yours faithfully
Nikutiku
Kolkata.
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Respected Amitjee,
Hope, you are feeling better and enjoying your work as useal.
With best wishes and regards.
deepti
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hi amitji,how r u?i m from west bengal,your every films r great without ‘AGG’.do u think agg is great mistake in your life??? i m waiting 4 your answer.
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Dear Amitji,
Kem Cho? Amitji i have the good frotune to share the same birthday as you - 11th October. I wish I had the zeal to work like you. You are a superman / spiderman all in one. How do you manage all this. One day in Indore, one day in Lucknow, one day in Mumbai then Bangkok, etc. My god travelling in mumbai i get tired - i do not know how you manage it. Kudos to you sir.
A little something i would like to share. I was brought up in Antwerp, Belgium. During one of your tours to Amsterdam in mid-eighties, i had the good fortune to be selected to be on stage and dance with you for the song from Kala Pathar; the children song. Out of all the children - I was the only one who was hugged by you and given a scarf. That scarf is still today there with me, and if ever i get the chance to meet you i would like to get another hug and another scarf
If we ever meet - i will show you the scarf.
All the best sir, and please take care, and please somehow reach me karmica\ly so that i can be on stage with you again.
Regards,
naimish
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Hi sir,
I love reading your blog and Mr. MoBlog is great which keeps us updated about how dear Mr. Bachchan is doing. It looks like everybody asks the same questions again and again and try to trick the readers/viewers. I remember Bhupendra Chaubey asking the similar questions a few days back.
It is said “Save paper, think before you print.” similarly they should think before they ask because whatever they ask, they’ll print and waste huge amount of paper.
Finally get well soon Aish,
Thanks and regards,
Varun Prakash Shrivastava
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Sir , could it possible to attach your video interviews from 80s or 90s or even seventies . It would be dream come true.
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Respected Sir,
Only people with calibre like you deserve such an accolade.
Good work. I am waiting for your response on concert tours.
Regards
Mohit
Kabul
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hi
Nice blog and way to i know its your own blog but give some credits to wordpress. thts nice right. by the way the pain and time is worth a lot
“way to go”. i dont know this is going to be showing here, anyway just telling.
regards
V
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thank you for calling us intelligient ;))))))) im really glad to know that u like reading our responses …infact these days im reading ur blog more
than than the newspaper .hehehehheeeeeee
love u bye
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I really am feeling strange that I am directly writing to you. One thing I would like to add , sir ,why is it that always we talk about movies whenever we talk with you , ie. even in blogs, can’t we talk on other matters like your connection with Kolkata ( I am from there) , how do you feel when you look back and think about those days when you worked in an office. Did you ever meet any one of them in your long career? What was their reaction towards you , especially your boss who might have scolded you then, LOL. How do you feel when you meet them?? Were you ever served Jamai Shoshti Bhoj by your mother in law??
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DEAR SIR,
HOW ARE YOU SIR
WARM REGARDS
HIMMAT SINGH GREWAL
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Dear Amit Uncle,
No need to say that you have big fan club. YOU HAVE !!! They dream to see you in person, so,please chalk out plan to visit all cities of India to give your “Jaddo Bhai Jhalak” to them. Visiting Indore, Hydrabad, Lucknow is not enough.
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Firstly, please wish Aishwaryia a speedy recovery. Great to hear your toothache is almost gone.
********Public Awareness Only:***********
Generally, rubella (german measles) causes only mild illness and no long-term problems. However, if you are pregnant and get infected with the rubella virus, you can give the disease to your fetus. Serious birth defects called congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) may occur in the first trimester. CRS birth defects include cataracts and other eye problems, hearing impairment, and heart disease. The rubella vaccination was developed mainly to prevent these birth defects. I am not a doctor, I just put info out there for awareness.
Sat sri Akal
Sukhjit
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Respected Amitjee,
Enjoyed ,reading your interviews…….Thanks for putting them out on your blogs.One question , may i please ask …….Dont you think that many times criticisms are just out of some grievences, some preassumed thoughts and also many times mixed with jealousy….or just for the sake of criticising someone,that is merely finding out faults with ….. or just to pass time and have fun,people criticise.Many people do not really realise that the word “criticism” is a nuetral term.I really feel sorry that when we talk about “criticism “,it carries more negativity than the positive attitudes .
I may not be correct , but I have just opened my mind here.
please do have a great time..
with due regards
deepti
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Dear Mr Bachchan,
I liked the manner in which you acknowledged the responses to your blog.It made me feel important….Ha,just kidding..I know that you are being modest…In fact it is the other way around…Feel blessed to have this blog…Gives me my ten minutes of kick daily…All the best for the “Unforgettable” tour…By the way, liked your attitude about wearing your “Indianness” proudly on your sleeve..If we had more citizens like you, there would be so much more unity and amity in the nation…You rock!
Rgds,
Nishan
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Dear Sir,
A sincere request. Though you are very busy and finding time for the blog is difficult, request if there could be a fixed schedule for the posting of the blog say a particular time where in we all fans will not be disappointed.
just a suggestion,
love
ajay rai
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hello sir howz was ur experience in indore and for wat hav u came to indore…
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Sir,
Its sooooooooo good to see you over-the-weather again!
The cold is gone, and more importantly, the toothache too!
Ahhhh…. such a relief!
INDORE!!!! I’d say Indore was anything but “indoor”
- it was simply OUTDOOR! Ohhh! What crowd!!!
The thronging crowd rekindled my memories of being there in one such crowd - and that too only last year! (So you cannot say “It reminded me of the good old days…”).
It was when you stepped out of Calcutta Club after its centenary dinner and a huuuuuuge crowd was waiting outside, blocking the whole of main street, anticipating you’d come out any moment!
And when you did, all hell broke lose! You ultimately had to step up on the chassis of the car and wave to the cheering crowd before your convoy was allowed to move!!!
And I was a witness, and a participant - both inside & outside!
regards,
Rajesh Kejriwal
Big B Yahoo Groups
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I just thought the last interview that u gave to hindistan times was the best of all, and unfortunately, as u say, may not get published at all, what was the problem with that interview as per HT?? Is it because of the small jig about the media conducting functions in same season? The people who give feedback about almost everything in the world, cant take back even a pinch of that about themselves?? What shame!!!!
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Dear Mr. Bachchan
‘Shantaram’ is possibly one of the most important films ever to be announced. I couldn’t believe we’d get to witness Amitabh Bachchan and Johnny Depp in the same frame; it would genuinely transcend cultural boundaries and I know Mira Nair would accomplish this to the fullest. Plus, that thing about you going bald was also tantalizing–it showed how zealous you were for the role. However I am left feeling a little muddled by some of the news lingering on the tube and in the papers over the film’s progress. News like how the writer’s strike had stalled the filming of ‘Shantaram’ and this came straight from Nair–a reliable source. Knowing this was temporary and it affected myriad other films I didn’t think much of it . Eventually when the strike was called off, most projects had resumed without delay but ‘Shantaram’ had still remained dormant for some reason as there were no updates coming of it. Keeping my patience intact I anticipating some good news, ruefully none came my way. Rather I was confounded one day by a disappointing article about how ‘Shantaram’ could be permanently shelved because funding Depp was getting to be difficult for the producers. I was driven to despair for this could have been a watershed film–one like none other especially for Indians. There after I stopped expecting anything.
A couple of days later, in contradiction to this, Depp in an interview expressed his desire on working with Nair and yourself in ‘Shantaram’ interestingly citing reason for the film’s resurgence. Sure one would imagine he was simply being diplomatic but by how much. If by a lot, then why haven’t the other parties been as forthcoming on this and if not by so much then why was Depp hinting anything at all.
Agreed you couldn’t have known what Depp was thinking at the time but as an audience you can only wonder why all these contradictions and why aren’t any firm statements being made on the film’s status.
Seeing how there is clearly nothing emerging on the horizon for ‘Shantaram’ I must–through this medium if I may- beg the question sir: will this film ever make it to the big screen? I know there are a lot of people out there such as myself who are just as curious. If this post manages to catch your attention, I earnestly wait for your reply.
Warm regards
Aditya S
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Wonderful Experience for media to straighten their thoughts,
I like the most of it ….
The transformation is in the minds of the media not mine.
It is a privilege and an honour to be a propagator of your country
something that I am sadly devoid of these days
sitting in front of my piano and pressing keys at will.
Now about Sexy questions …. ? Sex is an experience one have with other’s closeness to heart, body and mind.
Sooooooooooooo Sexy Soooooooo cute … is expression of a person’s mind about the other person and willingnesss to come closer… forgive her
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Respected Mr . Amitabh
I cant believe that you are replying blog comments Personaly, I am your fan, i want to meet you but i know that you dont have a time to meet but I have a small request to you Kindly please send me your faviourate photo by mail. it will be my pleasure and it will give me fill as I meet you ….
Thanks
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haaaa purane din to yaad aayenge hi na…….
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Dear sir,
Some suggestion to structure the content, before it becomes another migration project: -
The audience for your blog comes from diverse fraternity and of all age group. Depending on the audience your posts could be categorized in the following manner. It will help everyone who visits your blog on hourly basis to read all the comments and who due to lack of time, visits your blog on daily basis and many would be weekly or random visitors.
1. Categorizing your posts based on age group -
For kids
For teens
For the current GenX
For Parents
For Grand Parents
This would enable visitors to zoom in directly to their most interesting readings without spending much time here and there.
2. Categorizing the contents based on thematic areas:
As I have learned that you have partnered with Dr. Pachauri in his project on ‘lighting the life of billion people’, it would be good idea to share more knowledge with all your fans and how can they be part of it too… Your words are magical and it really motivates like nothing else in this world. So add a category in your blog and make us aware on how each of us can be part of that project.
3. Another good category to educate us will be your own life journey : Specially the ups and downs which is a part of your life and what kept you going without giving up. Each of us go through ups and downs in our life and very few succeeds in fighting back. Here your words can do magical things… Depending on your posts, the way you convey the message by telling us a story, some times we do not even notice that what has changed and how.. it just feel better and later we realize that it was your story, which is working… Magical… I hope you agree..
4. There are many comments with substantial information, which can be a good read for others as well. But it is simply impossible for the visitors to go through the comments (more than 1000s..). If you can assign someone to filter the comments and mark as featured comments (another category), it will create another good knowledge base. At the same time, visitors will be more tempted to write quality comments to be listed in the featured comments. A good way to encourage your fans to participate in Knowledge Sharing.
Yours,
SID
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Sir you have not changed a bit………
By the way can you please tell me who wrote the intro song for KBC 2………??????
Oh yes will we ever see you again on small screens as a host……..??????
Please reply……
Love you
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Sir
Please wish a speedy recovery to Ash from all of us. Hope she is not much in pain and will be back to normal soon.
Take Care
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hi hw r u? uncle
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Charan sparsh sir,
Am I the 1st 1 to comment on today’s blog of the “God of Indian Cinema” :)…..sir,I am always touched by ur humbleness and modesty.You know what…….You are jus wonderful :).Wish I could see u and touch your feet and have your blessings…
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hellow sir it has a month since i have been trying to get your blog thank you sir for your presence in the common people now we can think that you are in between all of us please visit to jabalpur if possible you will get a warm reception here in jbp…
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thats great
im sure all the people who interview you might be having a tough time getting a MASALA answer from you as each of your answer is so generous and well framed. I should say Diplomatic. But thats where your greatness lies. Thank you for sharing this with us.
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sir its great 2 c u bcum a netizen n blogger !
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i don’t think any body in this world can compare you with srk..you both are so diffrent in nature that there can’t be some thing like that …
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Dear Amitabh Bachchan Saab,
I am writing this response from my office at Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur. Your exclamation about incredible Indore made my mind to have an India tour sooner. I am so happy to know that your tooth ache had been over now. Sorry to know that Smt.Aishwarya is having some health problem and your care for her makes me so happy about the strong familial bonds. i am now thinking how differently people are living on this earth. You have to travel a lot in relation to your work while I have to travel only 20 kms for work. It is true that your quantum of work is so large related with ordinary people. I am so happy that you are busy for the entertainment of the people of all over the world.
From,
Arun.
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Hi AB !!
I Thank you for keeping your commitment and visiting Indore. We pepole at Indore still talk about you and still read a lot in newspaper about you. I have seen people crying when you could’t make it last time. One of the ladies was almost your mother’s age. She was very disappointed to miss you. I hope you will come again.. and since you have promised.. i know you always keep your words….next time you can visit Khajrana Ganesh temple and Omkareshwar.. the famous jyotilingam. Thanx once again
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amit ji pranam.maine kya kaha tha aap se indore ke barey mai.kya mai sach nahi tha?aap jaise vayktitva ke liye too stadium chotta hai janab.is ke pehle bhi aap aaye theyy indore agar aap ko yaad ho too.aap taj mai rukeytheyy.mai telecom comp mai tha aur aap ko apni co ki taraf se sim card dene gaya tha.aap yaad kare amit ji ye tab ki baat hai jab k b c shuru bhi nahi hua tha.samay ki baat hai tab aap ko dekhne ke liye kul jama 50 log bhi nahi theyy.ye wahi indore tha.
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Writing first time on your blog
Amitabh ji,
When will you be in politics. India needs a leader like you..
Please think about it, Atleast for the sake of all.
Regards,
Ashish
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Dear Amitji,
You have worked in a bengali film ‘Anusandhan’ in 80s. How did you managed to speak in bengali ? In Rituparna Ghosh’s recent film I think there is no bangla dialogue. Am I right ?
You are a vegiterian now, but long before when you were not have you tried Hilsa fish any time cooked by jaya di ? If you had how is it ?
Best regards,
subir
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hey that it so good to know about your sundays and sunadys with family and ashwariya ji making halwa. it,s so fun to know.
keep writing u r good
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amazing picture Mr. Bachchan. Congratulations on being the sexiest vegetarian.
M sure you have many more of those coming your way.
ila
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Dear Amit-ji,
I will continue to pester you with my insistence to advise me as to how and from where I can procure VCD / DVD of your past Concerts, namely :
1. JUMMA CHUMMA SHOW IN LONDON &
2. LIVE TONITE WITH AMITABH BACHCHAN
I have been asking you since over a month now and sadly, there has been no mention / response…….
I hope you will care to reply this time……….
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hiiiiiiiiiii………sir i an a big fan of u….u r the god of indian cinema…..may u live long……………………..& god bless u……
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Dear Amit ji,
You and your thoughts are flawlessly balanced and intelligently expressed ! The way you handle question is not at all diplomatic and evasive but expresses beautifully the way you want to deal with questions vis a vis your perception and personality.
It is heartening to note ABCL doing well….I wish as a professional having 18 years experience of handling International Business as Marketing head I can get a chanceto work in your company on my merit. But I dont know your website address or if there is any career column to apply for a fair evaluation.
This may be selfish but as a fan I cannot hide my secret dream to work with you in close proximity and help ABCL grow alongwith me !
Best regards
SKV
Cell no : 9811013969
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Dear Mr. Bachchan,
Good to hear you are feeling better now! Please do take out time (which you have very little of) to rest. I’m truly astonished at your busy and hectic schedule. May God give you the health and strength to cope with each day and look forward to the next.
Thank you for posting the interviews. It’s always nice to hear your thoughts through any medium, be it tv, interviews, and of course, the blog.
You have a spent 40 or so years in the industry. Times have changed, film-making has changed, ideas have changed, and people have changed. Do you feel that you have changed? After 40 years, how do you feel you have evolved? What changes have you gone through, good or bad, and what do you attribute those changes to? The physical changes of course would be age, health, physique, etc. I’m referring to changes in values, ideologies, mentalities, rationale, etc.
Basically, the question I put forth is, How has Amitabh Bachchan evolved over the years? The reason I seek an answer to this is because it would educational, inspirational, and motivational. It would help me evolve as well, not in the same way of course, but everything is a learning experience. I would be very grateful if you could shed some light on this. If you feel this is too personal a question, I’m truly sorry.
Anyway, I wish you all the best. Please keep me in your prayers as well, as my troubles persist but I’m a little more emotionally sound now, as compared to last week, so I’m able to keep myself composed.
Keep on shining!
Best wishes and regards,
Tariq
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Dear Amit Ji,
I always love to read your interviews,Plz share some of your travel exp. with us.
Sonal Rastogi
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LOL
Mein aap key Interview padh-padh key thak gaya…
aap really gr8 ho! pata nehi kaisa time nikaal letey hoon…
last night a thought came to my mind …
I was 11 years and bought my comic book called “Supremo” loved the bird and you in that comic…
your memories are endless with me…be in good health Supremo ji:)
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and some virtual yellow for for aishwarya… may she get well soon…
wishes,
ila
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I would like you ,to watch this video interview(1983) of yours taken after your recovery from accident , you talked about 3 years old girl suffered from gangrene and stuff like that , it may taken you into nostologic feeling link is below
http://youtube.com/watch?v=KsQj4utar-U
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Thanks for publishing those interviews…..i liked them and got to know you better……i am addicted to your blog and would like to be always…………keep writing for us.
Love
Shri
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“Tell me one maker who hasn’t ever gone wrong in his career”. Well Amitji, going wrong is one thing and being dumb is quite another. You asked for one maker, let me give you two. Manikda and Mrinalda, the folks who gave you your first voiceover assignments. Those two guys gone wrong? Never.
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sir …is u agree, the remaking of all legend films r good?
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Dear Amit-ji,
I recall 2 of your movies that released around the year 1984 namely SHARAABI and INQUILAAB. Incidentally, in both movies, you have shot entire song sequences with your hand bandaged or tied with a handkerchief.
I am inquisitive to know whether the burn injury in your left hand occured around that time ? The same one which you revealed much later in AGNEEPATH - which, to my mind and heart remains to be your best performance till date - way, way ahead of BLACK even.
Please do respond or I’d be compelled to believe that you rarely do read your viewers comments yourself and even if you do - perhaps it is done selectively.
i remain….. your greatest fan ever……..
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hiiiiiiiiiiii!!!!!!!!!!!!
ur blog is eduction for me !!!! take care & have nice time !!!!
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Dear Sir,
Its nice to see your interviews FREE on blog but still I think you shouldn’t post your interviews on blogs bcos a journalist make so much effort to generate fresh questions and reading all the matter on blogs free may hurt their efforts. But I know you are the best judge for this. -Amit Mathur
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RESPECTED SIR: SAIRAM. PRANAMS.
As usual, your spontaneous answers are honest coming from your noble heart. If you read my response, may I seek your opinion on my intriguing ‘yet-to-be-answered’ question? WHY ONLY HINDI CINEMA AND HINDI ACTORS ARE CALLED INDIAN CINEMA AND INDIAN FILM ACTORS AND WHY NOT OTHER LANGUAGE FILMS & ACTORS NOT CLASSIFIED INTO THAT CATEGORY? Similarly, why people from North especially Students are made to know less of Southern Part, its Culture, Freedom Fighters, Leaders while their coounterparts from South know very well Norther Part, its Culture, Freedom Fighters, Leaders, etc. etc. Should be Concerned be not concerned about it and do something positive towards that problem of discrimination?
PRANAMS AND PRAYERS FOR YOUR WELFARE
V. RAMASWAMY & SON PADMANAB SRIDHAR
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Hi,
GOOD to READ you Sounding FINE!
OK, the most readable and un-cringey was the Sandeep Bajmai interview (this is good… we get to know the name of journos and even to remember them! Considering that earlier we hardly knew who wrote what!). His questions were somewhat different from what has become the norm these days.
I am glad he asked … “does it bother you this shahenshah vs badshah thingie?â€
And your reply: “And this Shahenshah and Badshah ‘thingie’ is just that, a ‘thingie’. It is a juicy story manufactured by the media to titillate and exploit. It has not worked I am afraid and the media insists on pursuing it because an acceptance of its manufacture would cause it to lose credibility, something the media guards diligently. It is a story that reeks of garlic from every pore – it stinks ! Time to get off it. For me Shahenshah and Badshah are the titles of two films, nothing more.”
gilga
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Respected Sir,
I love the way you answer questions in an interview… *smile*…
when you talk about controversies and you say - “Even though we may want to put them in the past do you really believe the media will ever allow us that liberty ?”…. a fitting reply!…
Rock on! I try and catch up on your blog whenever I can.
Thank you for sharing so much of yourself with us!
Regards and best wishes,
Rajarshi.
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I saw your interview twice on TV. It was very casual It was Relaxing to watch. I read it on the Blog again. New things to know .if anyone make someone an idol like you it is always interesting to know more about your life. Whenever I opened the net I make it a point to go through your blogs, & post my opinion .It gives a nice feeling you can communicate directly with you. Good pass time as well as a learning experience as you said. One can develop this as a new hobby. It improves one’s writing skills also. And more over it gives opportunity to so many people to express their personal opinions. Nice sharing my views with you. Thanks a lot —jaya