Posted on: August 13, 2008 - 9:28 pm
New York, NY USA August 13, 2008 for Aug 12, a rewrite because the server went down and I lost all my post.
There has been a comment on my blog regarding the show in Chicago from one Mr Parag Gandhi and the treatment meted out to him by the promoters. There has also been comment from others on the blog directing my attention towards this. I wish to attend to it in this blog. A copy of what Mr Gandhi wrote to me is attached at the bottom for reference.
My dear Mr Parag Gandhi,
I have read your comment put on my blog of date and am replying to you instantly and publicly.
The course of events that you mention are indeed unfortunate, but you should be informed that none of the artists are aware of any of the happenings or what transpired at the meet and greet event with you.
We are all contracted to come and perform to the best of our ability at given venues. That we have been fulfilling. Further, the promoters have been asking us to meet the press at each venue to assist in promotional work and later to take photographs with friends, sponsors and relatives.
All the artists – Madhuri, Aishwarya, Preity, Ritesh, Vishal & Shekhar, Abhishek and myself have been dutifully complying with this. We are not aware of any schedules or timings given out by promoters on these events. We are merely taken out at a time decided by them and brought back at a time directed by them.
All of us have attended every press meet at each venue and all of us have taken hundreds of photographs with fans during the meet and greet section of the event.
In fact Abhishek and I have personally conducted proceedings at the meet and greet in order to bring in some semblance of order in the otherwise disorganized mad rush. And more importantly, to make sure that each guest gets their individual personal moment with the artists. We get them to form a line in the hall where we meet them and then see them come across one by one to join all of us standing in a line at the other end of the hall. Once we see that the cue line is complete and that all have taken their photographs, only then do we ask to be led out.
Yes, we are asked to enter the premise from the back and leave from the back as well. This is not our wish, it is the dictate of the security detail assigned for the job and on most occasions the police, who on seeing the rush and the mobbing of fans, have been escorting us through the city in patrol cars and motor bikes. Despite that, at most places, we have deliberately defied procedure and gone out into the crowds to meet fans and give autographs and take photos. Since most of this activity happens when we are either leaving the Hotel for the show or returning from it exhausted and tired, it does become difficult to stop by and oblige everyone that crowds the lobby or the driveway of the Hotel. The Management of the Hotel also does not encourage this due to the inconvenience it causes their other guests.
All artists are also, Mr Gandhi, completely unaware of any understanding that you may have had with the promoter, verbal or financial. We have not been made a part of it and therefore find your remarks too judgmental, unfair and uncalled for.
We are all conscious citizens and concerned professionals. If you are going to abuse our integrity publicly then I have the right to defend it publicly too. We take great umbrage at your generalized remark on what you believe to be the attitude and conduct of stars. Yes we are here because of our fans and we have and shall always be eternally grateful and indebted to them. We understand and respect that better than anyone else.
You have decided to become a ‘die hard fan – no more’ ! I shall respect that too.
But let me demonstrate to you our respect for our fans.
Today is my Mother’s first birthday after she passed away in December last year. Innumerable times the writers on my blog have been telling me that I write and have written much about my Father, but nothing on my Mother. With her death so recent, it has been a difficult emotional exercise for me to talk about her, or to write. But, I had decided to hold on to it till her birthday.
Today, instead of talking about her, her life and what she has meant to my family and me I am devoting an entire blog to you and my concern for your issue. You ! ‘A die hard fan - no more !’
I AM READY TO LOSE A DIE HARD FAN, MR GANDHI, BUT WILL NOT COMPROMISE WITH MY HONESTY AND MY INTEGRITY. SOMETHING THAT YOU HAVE WRONGLY AND UNJUSTLY CHALLENGED AND DEMEANED.
I have sent your comment to the event managers, Wizcraft and have requested them to look into this matter and bring it to the notice of the promoters.
You state you conducted my shows in 1993. Did you take any photographs then ? Would you be kind enough to send them across to me for my reference and future guidance ?
Also you say your brother was Abhishek’s room mate. Could you tell me where this was ?
It would also be of great help to the managers if you could forward or produce some documents or paper work justifying the financial understanding that you may have had with the promoters.
In closing Mr Gandhi, I understand your hurt, but if there is something that can be done by us to ease your condition my family and I shall be only too happy to do so.
Amitabh Bachchan
parag gandhi Says:
August 12th, 2008 at 2:04 pm e
Dear Amitji,
We flew all the way from San francisco to chicago to see your show, we even paid the promoters thousands of dollars to get a photo with you.We were guaranteed that we would meet you during the meet and greet ceremony, I and my wife waited inline for 4 hours with our newborn only to be told that you are arriving late then leaving 15 min early without completeing the meet and greet. We spent more money to change our flights and were truly dissappointed with not just these promotors who took hard earned money and ran but from you as well a person we love dearly. To make us wait for hours with a newborn baby and to leave without aknowledgement is toitally unprofessional. A lesson will be taught and learned here by all , I was fortunate to tape the entire show in Chicago and will be releasing it in the next two days with a dsiclaimer”This is to all the people who got screwed by not just the promoters in Chicago(Monty,Majid) but all the other promoters across the us who have taken hard earned money from people and ran, Im sorry to do this , but this is not to hurt you or your turn but to make you wise the fans do count. The lesson learned is do not take advantage of your fans and well wishers everyone was a nobody untill the fans came along and made everyone somebody. This is coming from a person who did your show in 1993 and my brother was a roomate of Abhishek , this is why this is more hurting than anything else. Please next time do not deal with promotors who are the lowest class on the scale and whose dealings are of the illegal kind. We spent over 6000 dollars and flew across the States only to be dissappointed, The old saying is holding true “Stars live in a different world and only use the common man tio climb the ladder of success , only to be discarded when they reached the fame status. I hope this blog is not deleted and is shown in it full format. Really dissappointed from a person to claim to be a professional and beyond.
There were people from florida who payed 20000 dollars to the promoters to have a chance to meet you at the meet and greet and the poor family was left crying with his family and the promoters were their laughing it up.
Sorry but I hope the video i release brings some comfort to the one that got ripped off by the promoters and the stars.
Those who want the video please send me your request to paragandhi@yahoo.com, also will be available on Facebook and myspace in the next few days.
From a die hard fan…no more
Hello Amitji,
I believe by the time you read this blog, you would have been done with your Chicago show as well. And I am very sure that even that show would have been as electrifying as the one in Atlantic City, NJ. Hope the entire crew is having a good health.
Amitji - I don’t have words to convey “THANK YOU” to you. I just don’t know how should I do it. I’m sure you will still recollect, I am the same “APURVA” whom you had arranged to call at the “Meet & Greet” at the Atlantic City, NJ on 08/08/08.
I just cannot tell you how happy I am. You REALLY made my dream turn into a reality with such easiness. I am so obliged. Few moments before I met you, I was under the impression that it will be like exchanging “Hellos” with you, a quick picture & then done.
But Amitji, it was not like that. It was like you knew me even before you met me for first time. When Noreen introduced you to me, you at once said “Oh, see I have kept my promise” and that made me skip my heart beat in a positive way. How can an ordinary person like me be so lucky to be with a person having immense respect and fame all over the world, that too HE HIMSELF DID THIS ARRANGEMENT.
Amitji - Fans get to see you by mere coincidence or through their contacts & friends (as that was the case at Atlantic City as I gathered later) but in my case, you yourself called me in. I not only got to see you but also got to MEET & talk to you at a personal level. Although it was for a minute, our conversation was at a personal level when you said “”OH, SEE I HAVE KEPT MY PROMISE” and thats what makes my meeting with you much much EXTRA-ORDINARY. You even obliged to give me an autograph on your own book “To Be or Not To Be” by Khalid Mohammed.
I can just never forget ki maine aapke “SAAKSHAATH DARSHAN” kiye hai. The hand-shake with you, the exchange of words have kept me in dreams for the past few days since I met you. Unfortunately we could not take a picture with you because of the tight time-line & the rush pouring in later. But still, the meeting with you makes us feel satisfied & content. The professional photographers from Wizcraft have clicked all the pictures in the evening, so with Noreen’s help, I may be able to get my pictures with you, from Wizcraft photographer. I just pray for that.
My entire family (parents, brothers, sisters, in-laws) have been overwhelmed on hearing that you made this possible yourself. We all THANK YOU once again and pray from bottom of our hearts that God shower on you all the health & positive energy that you may require to be content yourself and make others happy in this world.
Last but not the least, I also thank Noreen & Utpal for making this happen in the most wonderful way they can. They treated us in the best possible way a fellow human being has to treat another.
Noreen - That was really great of you for the way you treated us with immense respect & dignity. Also, learnt from you how to keep cool (and not sound tense) with others, while handling responsibilities of such a big event. Our best wishes to you & Utpal for all your future endevours. Not sure i believe, you both are from Wizcraft.
Amitji - Hats off to your humbleness. Despite your exalted position you have always made others feel special.
This kind gesture of yours have pumped the most required adrenaline into my body with all the positive energy to succeed in life not only professionally but also in becoming a good human being with dignity. I learnt this from you. You made me confident to believe in dreams
I am sure…..people around you at work learn so much from you…and those things we all miss.
Coming to your show which I attended the next day, we were all taken aback with the meticulous sequence of the entire cast. When you arrived on stage with the “Kaailia” / “Yaarana” song (Saara Zaamana) and DON (Mein hu Don) the entire hall was taken away by you. Your recitation of the movie dialogues was a moment to see & hear. You set the mood and it was so electrifying ki yeh “Dil Maange More”.
I hope to meet you soon….and also hope you remember my name the next time we meet aka on your blog site. Ha haha. -:)
I would end this comment with a small note “Your Unforgettable Tour” has made my day of 08/08/08 the most “Unforgettable Day” in my entire life.
Thank you!
Regards,
Apurva Vaidya,
Atlantic City, NJ
appu_123@hotmail.com
(Report abuse)
dear amitiji
what to say after reading this blog….
May your mother soul rest in peace…
bye sir take care…
(Report abuse)
Hello Amitabhji
I must compliment you on your penmanship, though this sentiment is not original but it is most heartfelt. I confess i read your entries as one would read a letter from a favorite elder.
I write this email to offer my unsolicited view, Mr. Parag Gandhi, does not deserve just a long reply or attention from you. He certainly deserved to be addressed but a few lines would have sufficed. Sometimes people use a gun to shoot a fly. And Parag Gandhi has acted like a ”fly” misplacing the cause of his disappointment.
Today being your mom’s birthday, spent your day in the joy of her memory and celebrate it.
Love and regards
(Report abuse)
I am feeling so terribly sorry for you, Mr Bachchan…
(Report abuse)
Dear Amitjee,
I , as a fan,can understand what Mr Gandhi must have gone through.But he carries no right to accuse the stars in this matter.
May god bless your mother’s soul.A woman’s greatness is often decided by the way she raises her children.And your mother was indeed a great lady.
Love always
Prachi
(Report abuse)
Amit ji,
Re “Parag Gandhi”
we only wanted to hear your side of the story & you have explained everything very clearly. I hope Mr.Gandhi will give you public apology & realises he needs to direct his anger at the promoters!
Lots of love
(Report abuse)
Dear AmitJi,
My respect for you have grown by loads reading this post ,seeing how much you care about a common man in between all your problems issues and your grief. I admire your respect to your parents and sad so hear today is your mom’s birthday.
Forever Ur Fan
-Murthy.
(Report abuse)
GOD tussi great ho!
(Report abuse)
I personally feel that Mr. Gandhi, his family and his cute little one has suffered a lot more, reason maybe anything. I do not hold you or your team responsible for this. The organizers must step up to pay Mr. Gandhi his dues because that would be ethical and professional on their part. Its their responsibility to ensure that communication is fool-proof and that people are made aware of any changes in schedules or plans. By the way, I attended your show in Oakland arena San Francisco and it was great.
(Report abuse)
But the point is, these kind of things DO happen everywhere without the stars being know about..
Sadly these things are not under star’s control but the people should be smart enough in not spending money over these kind of things, there are high chances of getting cheated.
Now, offtopic… about the technical problem with the server and the post getting lost..
I think you are using Mac.. what I suggest is, use this blogging application called MarsEdit, check it here: http://www.red-sweater.com/marsedit/
You can ask your tech guys to install it on your laptop and set it up.. this will save the posts and make the life easier
I hope it helps.
Regards,
Deep
(Report abuse)
Dear Mr. Bachchan,
I completely agree with you and your response to Gandhi. It was totally unfair to bring you in this mess (if any). Don’t forget to write about your Mother… eagerly waiting for.
Lots Love
(Report abuse)
Mr. Amitabh sir,
I live in chicago. I was wondering if I can act in one of your new movies. If not yours, then maybe Abhishek’s or Aishwarya’s new movies. Please sir, I want to become a great actor like you. Your quotes were very inspiring. Can you please consider me…I just want to be in a movie with you. It has become one of my life goals. I will even do it for free…no money involved. Please sir, make my dream come true. I want to be your guys friends. You guys are awesome. Please respond back Mr. Amitabh.
If you want to email me my address is blackstarssjmisticgohan@yahoo.com.
Thank you.
Did you really mean it when you said that Chicago was the best one you did so far?
(Report abuse)
Only you Amitji, only you can address this issue in such a dignfied way. nobody else would even bother, but you did. that goes to show how honest and sincere you are to yourself, your family and most importantly to your fans.
you never cease to amaze me!
may GOD bless you with more success and Good Health Always.
(Report abuse)
Shall send you a message through a friend in this matter. Very interesting inputs.
(Report abuse)
Only people who look out to be exploited can be exploited. With due respect to all the felow bloggers, this comment is directed to you and you alone Mr.Bachchan.Instead of being die hard fan and then no more, why dont these so called die hard fans focus on holding on to a memory of A GOOD PERFORMANCE, A LOOK, A SIGNATURE DNACE STEP,AN UNFORGETABLE PERFORMANCE, and cherish it for a lfetime. All these autographs, photographs handshakes are so momentary and it serves only the selfish pusrpose of these so called fans. They gloat about it, show off the same to the not so financially fortunate fans and then relegated to a corner and forgotten. It would be so much more worthwhile if they donated the amount to a charitable cause in their idols name.And if they could spend all the energy and effort for a noble cause. Th0se would be the worthy admirerers and well wishers of their idols. These so called die hard fans are asking to be exploted in their vain pursuits.
(Report abuse)
Hello Amitji,
I believe by the time you read this blog, you would have been done with your Chicago show as well. And I am very sure that even that show would have been as electrifying as the one in Atlantic City, NJ. Hope
the entire crew is having a good health.
Amitji - I don’t have words to convey “THANK YOU” to you. I just don’t know how should I do it. I’m sure you will still recollect, I am the same “APURVA” whom you had arranged to call at the “Meet & Greet”
at the Atlantic City, NJ on 08/08/08.
I just cannot tell you how happy I am. You REALLY made my dream turn into a reality with such easiness. I am so obliged. Few moments before I met you, I was under the impression that it will be like
exchanging “Hellos” with you, a quick picture & then done.
But Amitji, it was not like that. It was like you knew me even before you met me for first time. When Noreen introduced you to me, you at once said “Oh, see I have kept my promise” and that made me skip my
heart beat in a positive way. How can an ordinary person like me be so lucky to be with a person having immense respect and fame all over the world, that too HE HIMSELF DID THIS ARRANGEMENT.
Amitji - Fans get to see you by mere coincidence or through their contacts & friends (as that was the case at Atlantic City as I gathered later) but in my case, you yourself called me in. I not only got to
see you but also got to MEET & talk to you at a personal level. Although it was for a minute, our conversation was at a personal level when you said “”OH, SEE I HAVE KEPT MY PROMISE” and thats what makes my
meeting with you much much EXTRA-ORDINARY. You even obliged to give me an autograph on your own book “To Be or Not To Be” by Khalid Mohammed.
I can just never forget ki maine aapke “SAAKSHAATH DARSHAN” kiye hai. The hand-shake with you, the exchange of words have kept me in dreams for the past few days since I met you. Unfortunately we could not
take a picture with you because of the tight time-line & the rush pouring in later. But still, the meeting with you makes us feel satisfied & content. The professional photographers from Wizcraft have
clicked all the pictures in the evening, so with Noreen’s help, I may be able to get my pictures with you, from Wizcraft photographer. I just pray for that.
My entire family (parents, brothers, sisters, in-laws) have been overwhelmed on hearing that you made this possible yourself. We all THANK YOU once again and pray from bottom of our hearts that God shower on
you all the health & positive energy that you may require to be content yourself and make others happy in this world.
Last but not the least, I also thank Noreen & Utpal for making this happen in the most wonderful way they can. They treated us in the best possible way a fellow human being has to treat another.
Noreen - That was really great of you for the way you treated us with immense respect & dignity. Also, learnt from you how to keep cool (and not sound tense) with others, while handling responsibilities of
such a big event. Our best wishes to you & Utpal for all your future endevours. Not sure i believe, you both are from Wizcraft.
Amitji - Hats off to your humbleness. Despite your exalted position you have always made others feel special.
This kind gesture of yours have pumped the most required adrenaline into my body with all the positive energy to succeed in life not only professionally but also in becoming a good human being with dignity.
I learnt this from you. You made me confident to believe in dreams
I am sure…..people around you at work learn so much from you…and those things we all miss.
Coming to your show which I attended the next day, we were all taken aback with the meticulous sequence of the entire cast. When you arrived on stage with the “Kaailia” / “Yaarana” song (Saara Zaamana) and
DON (Mein hu Don) the entire hall was taken away by you. Your recitation of the movie dialogues was a moment to see & hear. You set the mood and it was so electrifying ki yeh “Dil Maange More”.
I hope to meet you soon….and also hope you remember my name the next time we meet aka on your blog site. Ha haha. -:)
I would end this comment with a small note “Your Unforgettable Tour” has made my day of 08/08/08 the most “Unforgettable Day” in my entire life.
Thank you!
Regards,
Apurva Vaidya,
Atlantic City, NJ
appu_123@hotmail.com
(Report abuse)
Hello Amitji,
Just read about the comment by fellow blogger about the unjustifiable behaviour (as he says & feels) meted out to him by the promoters of the Chicago show.
Mr.Gandhi, I can just tell you that it is not at all deliberate.
If you read my previous comment today, you will know how humble, down-to-earth Mr.Bachchan is and how he makes his fans “special” by his actions. He puts in action what he says & feels about.
So, Mr.Gandhi, please do not feel bad about Mr.Bachchan. I can understand the feelings & emotions you went through because of not being able to meet Mr.Bachchan. You also spends DOLLARS on it. What happened
to you is unfortunate. It’s completely understandable.
If the same incident would have happened with me, I would not have vented out anger but I would have felt content & happy that I could had atleast a good view of Mr.Bachchan although feest & feets
away….It’s difficult to digest & its difficult to be satisfied with the glimpse but….that does not give us the right to call him arrogant or he using us.
Althouh he is a star, behind the scenes he is a normal human being like us, only exception being people are mad for him & not for you or me. This is because he has earned this respect. As I observed
personally, he can only do what is in his control. But cannot intervene in between you & the promoter.
Eventhough I met him, I could not take a picture with him because of the rush & timeline. But I am content. Try to see it in positive way, my friend.
Apna apna nazariya hai dost!
Again, I am no way related to Mr.Bachchan so do not think I am covering him for any reason….., Just telling what comes to my mind on reading your comment.
Best Wishes,
Apurva Vaidya
(Report abuse)
My little kids wrote to you on the blog and everyday they ask me ” Did Amitabh Bachchan write back- I am always disappointed to say no- Please let me know if we can arrange a meet and greet with you in NYC so I can bring my kids to meet you in person:) I would really appreciate it. It would be like a dream come true for them.
(Report abuse)
Belated Happy Birthday to your mother and I hope she is happy and well wherever she is. I am your fan, but I have a major issue with all organizers of events like this so I understand Mr. Gandhi’s issue with the organizers, but I don’t see how you or the stars are at fault for this. Organizers have always been greedy and so I do my bit of going against them by not attending the concerts, not that it does anything because one person not attending is quite insignificant especially on this tour when all the shows are sold out. The point, though, is that you and the other stars are not at fault and especially you, because there are very few stars who are as greatful as you are to your fans and there isn’t one star who at this age would go out and do a world tour to interact with their fans. Only if the organizers had a blog, then i could write an essay on the issues I have with them, but it doesn’t make sense for me to put it all here. Anyways, take care
(Report abuse)
What Parag has written is totally justifiable. I have a newborn at home too and stayed away even from the show in Oakland as it would mean lot of hassles for the baby. I am a big Amitabh fan and realize that I missed a great opportunity but family comes first at any cost. Parag must be a really big fan for going through all this trouble of flying to chicago just to meet his favorite. He is justified in bringing it to the notice of people he took so much pains for. Mr Bachhan should know what all goes behind the scenes.
Well my friends attended the show and they all are immense praise for Amitabh , Madhuri and Abhishek. Everyone is truly going ga ga for Abhishek as well.
(Report abuse)
In a Blink of an Eye and your day 111 appears and DAMN i missed to be first to comment and others already rushed in hush hush - but doesnt matter;NOw we can enjoy day 111.
will write more further.
(Report abuse)
Mr Parag,
You have gotten the response that is well justified. Now if you could also share with the blog the details as requested by Mr Bachchan it would help us in confirming your geniunity and integrity
1.) Details on when you were a sponsor
2.) your brother’s name
3.) the details of the financials (ticket price and air ticket price)
4.) Picture of your newborn (hopefully you are so immoral to just make that up to dramatize your story.
Considering that you are on public domains like facebook it will not be difficult to track this down if you happen to disappear.
Mr Bachchan,
Enjoy the serenity in one of the many temples in the New York area and we shall all pray for the continued resting of your mother’s soul in peace. You continue to climb higher and higher with every post, with every sentence, with every word, and even with every “unspoken word”. We can almost hear your thoughts now….
Best Regards,
Dhiraj
(Report abuse)
Heart felt warmth towards you and family on the occasion of your mom’s first birth aniversary. Why on earth would you sacrifice a shraddhanjali to the memory of your mother for some die hard fan -no more. Such people ask for it in their pursuit of fanning their own selfish egos, and we your well wishers would want you to pay a rich tribute to your mom rather then spend such a significant day in justification. If anybody is exploited by the promoters, let them deal with them.We stand by you and your memories of your great mother. may god rest her soul in peace. And yes Mr. B a huge bear hug to you specially on this ocasion. Love.
(Report abuse)
Mr. Gandhi’s anger is justifiable but totally uncalled for, on this blog. Really, the stars have no idea what promoters have been promising verbally or on paper. What promoters promise should be taken with a pinch of salt. That is the reason, I am very wary of spending big bucks for these so-called promises, because I have heard of many stories of hapless folks robbed of their earnings in return for a verbal promise of getting one-on-one opportunity with the stars.
As you say, Mr. Parag, you have organized shows, then you should know that these things happen and you should know better than to blame the stars. Mr. Bachchan is not given a guest list of people he is supposed to meet.
I can understand how it feels, how unjust and unfair. So, I am glad that for your sake, Mr. Bachchan is taking a personal interest in your complaint.
Amit uncle, I am looking forward to your blog post about your mother. I can’t imagine life without parents, maybe I am too young to understand such tragedy and how life goes on. So I hope on this day, instead of Mr. Parag, you will remember your mother and celebrate her life and what she did for you.
Sincerely,
Ghunoo
(Report abuse)
i read this story of mr. GANDHI may he is right to some extent its bettet if u can just find out the truth from your promoters ……
(Report abuse)
Amitabh - you are God’s gift to the Indian Film Industry. I know that every Indian is very proud of you. I respect every movie you have made. My personal favorites are Sholay, Deewaar, Agneepath, Satte Pe Satta, Ram Balram, Shaan, Namak Halaal, the list goes on… You are larger than life and we look forward to seeing more of you films… love from your most important Fan!!! Your idol!!
(Report abuse)
Hi Amitabh,
There again you prove me right. Going after the negative posts in full steam. Ignoring the countless others who wish you well.Well, I have lost it now, even as a reader!
Thanks and Regards
Sudhir
(Report abuse)
this is directed to mr. gandhi,
you claim you are a die hard fan of mr. bachchan. fans do not write balckmail kind of language. secondly you knew promoters cheated on you why to take it on the artist. if you deal with promoters legally, you could have taken them to court. you live in usa. these artist are your guest from another country. i do not think we treat the guest like this.
(Report abuse)
hi n a big hug 4 u…when u love somebody give love unconditionally this is wht i believe in n this guy mr parag looks like is on a mission now….wow atleast u made him busy 4 a while poor guy has something 2 do now…..i mean how low people can stoop 2 get recognition but u know wht …..U R THE BEST N I KNOW HOW CULTURED N EDUCATED U R….pls remember ur mom n let this guy do whtever he wants….n if he is no more ur fan its ok i’m goin 2 fill the space he left i’m DOUBLE ur fan now………..so c u did not loose any1…….U R SOMEBODY WHO IS PERFECT N SO DOWN 2 EARTH….U CAN NEVER B WRONG….LOVE U GOD BLESS U ALWAYS……N U MR GANDHI OR WHTWVER JUST…………(FILL THIS SPACE 4 URSELF)…OK
(Report abuse)
I am a little nervous as I am writing in a blog for the first time. Was never a movie buff until I migrated to the US where the sole source of entertainment is movies. Haven’t watched any of your older movies but this fan fair started from the song say shava shava which my 2 year old daughter fell in love with. My mother in law would always comment on her love for Sir Amitab bacchan….yeh to agar Amitab ji ko dekh legi to unki god mein hi chad jayegi. Now she is 7 years old and still a die hard fan. She went and bought the Hanna Montana dress for the Unforgettable show a great day she felt in her life. As for me after watching Sarkar Raj my only comment to my friends on the movie was now there should be a temple for Mr. Bachan just like the one they have in South for Rajnikanth. If Mr. Bachan were in London the queen would officially bestow him with a title Sir Bachan. So I prefer to call him Sir Bachan. Comments on the unforgettable to follow.
(Report abuse)
Happy “left Hander’s Day” Sir.
(Report abuse)
Well reading Day 111 feels like weird - Firstly why would a family pay 20K dollars for meet & greet? Even if they did they are not stupid enough to not keep any legal documents/receipts proof of payment that they will be allowed ot meet the artists at some point.
20000 dollars is no peanuts and Mr Gandhi you sound like a wiseman and react like a fool without brains. Why would you pay 6000 dollars and don’t keep any proof of payment later to be cheast “which you claim here”. If you were ripped off, then you are not in India, you are in USA, a country which can back you and a country which is famous to sue anybody. You can easily file a case against Wizcraft for defrauding you, if that is what is true according to you.
And anyone will agree with me, Mr Bachchan has no involvment in any of this anyone you need to blame is Wizcraft, Mr Bachchan has no clue, nor idea of exchange of any funds for meet and greet.
You should have known this, but seems you are just here to moan and brag about your loss if that is true, or you are one of those scam artists who is using a perfect issue here to malign Amitabh Bachchan’s name.
I think “SHAME ON YOU”, if you were victim, then I am deeply sorry about that and hope justice is done, but you have no right to drag Amitabh Bachchan in here and say harshy words to him, Its like “karre koi Bharre Koi”.
And last but not least, if you are a proper scam artist then you insult all Indians abroad, and this is a very cheap way of scamming. You show you are a third class person.
(Report abuse)
AMi Uncle!
How Sweet of you to explain!
Mr Gandhi You were very Rude and Emotional! Even I paid Alot of Money to go see Ami Uncle preform in toronto. I paid for the bus from another city, the cab to the venue, then front tickets..for my brother and I..and then the return. I am a student at University, so you can imagine my budget. But I dont have any regret because I admire the artists and wanted to be entertained.
Plus Mr.Gandhi I think your frustration excelerated due to a bringing a new born child to a concert. This infact is not good for the child’s ears or enjoyment of the show. And Yes that would become rather difficult, but thats the choice you and ur wife made.
The Artists themselves are conducted to do what is being told of them. Its by the promoters and organisers. They get to a certain venue which they know nothing of and follow the lead of people who know better in that situation. Ive seen their energy, esp Ami Uncle’s and I doubt that he would avoid a fan knowing what the situation was. I dont think its wrong that you addressed this point if u felt cheated, but in the way you did it and to who you did it, is very immature. Being younger than you, Im sure, even I would never go ahead an threaten to publish the show on the internet. Trust me even if you did that, people would still go to the concerts left now. You bascially sounded foolish. And for the record, you had a newborn child, a wife, a concert to watch and time to tape the whole show?
Firstly, I dont even understand the people who tape shows or concerts. Pictures I understand, a clip or 2 I also understand. But paying for the ticket and like you said Mr Gandhi Alottt for it, you stood there taping the show? That doesnt say alot about your intellectuality, now does it?!
You should infact apologise to Ami uncle and be thankful that he replied to your stupidity. A die hard fan ..No more.. one wrong duck in a million wont make a difference to him, neither did he owe you an explaination because nowhere in the advertisement does it say that they r going to meet and greet fans. It says that they are coming to perform for a ticket price, which I believe they are doing to the best of their Ability.First Prove to the world and this platform that you have very easily ditrubed that where, physically where does it say in the promotion of “The Unforgettable Tour” that they stars will meet you and greet you for money? Enough Said.
I read and write back to Ami Uncle almost daily and every day Ive written a little something, Like “I love you or Adopt me, etc” (mostly in humor)Just to make a point that Ive read your Blog Uncle. I dont need to reply in detail to make a point or get noticed by you, but reading this blog today got me very sad then anything else. I learn something new everytime and thats the reason I read your blog. It gives me peace, as knowledge does. Im thristy for knowledge, I read the news daily, watch shows, read other blogs, articles, anything online.
I call you uncle because you only become personal if you try_I try.
I wanna Wish Dadi Jee..A Very Happy Birthday! I wish you enjoy the rest of the day and think about her with positive thoughts. You cant make everyone Happy Ami uncle, thats not possible. Someone will always have some issue and you arent here to solve all. Smile Today..You are wonderful.
Hehe Your Adopted Daughter, Who Also Felt The need to reply to Mr Gandhi only because I take you as a father figure!
Sooo Booyaa Mr Gandhi and Now you owe me an Explaination!
Emaan Khan
Trent University
Peterborough
Canada
(Report abuse)
Dear Amit Sir,
Nothing in this world could justify more than what you have justified to Mr. Parag…I think your acknowledgment and justification is worth more than having a photograph or an autograph with/from you…This is the extreme level of care and love what you have shown through your blogs…As a die hard fan to you, I could understand the pain of Mr. Gandhi, but I hope he would have understood the situation very well now…
We wish to know something about your mother on her B’day..Pls. do share your memories with her….Secondly, we would request you to share your love with your brother Ajitabh Jee too….How’s he doing, how’s his family…I’m staying in USA past three years and I miss my brothers a lot…
Hope to hear some more and some good from you soon…
With much love, affection and regards,
Rupesh, Shweta & Shourya (My Little Kiddo)
(Report abuse)
Wow! This guy lugs his newborn baby miles across a nation and spends a fortune, all to spend a few minutes with a bunch of stars… What kind of a twisted world do we live in?
(Report abuse)
Dear Mr. Bachchan,
You are such a wonderful human being and I hope this compliment helps you in this matter. You are so committed to your fans. You respect everyone as an equal, no matter what they do or don’t do for a living. Just, thank you. Thank you for who you are and what you have done for us. Mr. Gandhi is furious right now, and I would be too if that happened to me. I am a 12-year-old girl and I think I understand this situation. So sorry for you and for everyone who got their hopes down. I might’ve been at the meet and greet in New York, but now that I know you have to pay to get a signature of a person, who has a great job, it’s not worth it. I’m already coming all the way from Florida, paying for 6 other people, so I don’t think my mother will let me spend any more money on you.
Thank you for everything and I hope things work out with Mr. Gandhi,
Araliya
(Report abuse)
Dear Amitji,
My eyes were wet when i read today’s blog.. U r true gentleman.. i mean it.. Love u..
(Report abuse)
Dear Mr. B.,
As always, a clear and dignified response.
One can understand the bitterness of the fan who thinks himself shoved aside in favor of the very rich. But there is always another side to the story, and once each side has had his say, it becomes clear that neither is at fault, but the intermediaries who didn’t manage to get the two together. It happens, particularly in a long tour and with so many quick changes and dashes to and from venues.
You’ve coped with this the very best you could. Good for you for addressing it, and I hope Mr. Gandhi understands now that it wasn’t your fault or that of the other performers.
Aloha from Hawaii …
Love, Dorothy
(Report abuse)
Hello Mr. Bachchan,
I am very impressed by you and your recent post. You have done the right thing by standing up for yourself and not letting fans take the best out of you. I can understand the frustration Parag Gandhi must be going through, especially after shelling out such huge amounts of money. But people do need to realize that money doesn’t buy everything in the world and if there was an informal understanding between the promoter and themself, they should go after the promoter and not the stars, perhaps get their money back……Common Sense 101!!!!!! The recourse (posting of the show videos on youtube and facebook), Parag Gandhi has decided to take justifies his low IQ level and the fact that he flew all the way to Chicago to watch your show even though there was a show in his home city of San Francisco. Besides, posting the videos online might get him in legal trouble with the organizers. My recommendation to you Mr. Bachchan is that you please do not take the time to respond to such posts or make any sort of special effort to correct it. Your REAL FANS will much rather hear about you and your days as opposed to a blog entry directed to a pissed off fake “fan”. Doing so will only make matters worse and all of a sudden there will a lot more pissed off fans seeking some help or another from you. You have more than a billion fans and pleasing all of them is just not possible or practical!
I attended your show in LA and I must say, I was pleasently surprised to see you perform, knowing you were not feeling 100%. After hearing the news that you are down with flu, I was expecting you to only come on stage for a few minutes but its your dedication and commitment towards your fans that made you go out of your way to perform at the show without showing any signs of fatigue or sickness. I am a huge fan of yours and wish you and your family all the very best…..God Bless!
(Report abuse)
Dear Amitji,
My eyes were wet when i read today’s blog.. U r true gentleman.. i mean it.. Love u..
Take Care
A die hard fan who’ll be there for u FOREVER..
(Report abuse)
dear sir,
he was not really a die hard fan of urs. people who use wrong means to get their work done normally get cheated nd land up in situation like this.
ofcourse ..if some thing of this sort comes into your view..u should always takeit up with the promotors.
mr parag..well sorry for u..but u got ur frustration go in a wrong way.
waste of energy.
regards,
krishna raj
(Report abuse)
It is sad that on a day like this, your mother’s B-day, you have to address this issue. It is clearly not your fault as Mr. Ghandi had made these arrangements with the promoters, so the blame definetly should not come upon you.
Anyways, I believe you paid great tribute to your Father and Mother during your show. You recited two great dialogues; one from Agneepath and the other from Deewar. You paid respect to your Father by reciting his poem when you delivered your dialogue from Agneepath; and you paid great respect to your mother by reciting your very emotional, and moving, dialogue from Deewar.
I still can’t forget your show. It truely is UNFORGETTABLE!
(Report abuse)
When you write anything keep on pressing Ctrl and S keys together intermittently. This will keep on saving your work and you won’t lose anything. By the way I was at your Chicago show. It was a great show.
(Report abuse)
Nina Amlani’s thought of donating to a charity is very noble. I won’t say necessarily that buying the tickets for unforgettable show was something that was an expenditure one could deal with considering there are so many other expenses that could buy you the necessaties but at the same time there could be a justification for every extravagant expense in your life. For this one my justification was that this may be my only chance to see a living legend which would be a life time experience to be cherished. However, I will still make sure that I give to the charity in the name of Sir Bachan as Nina Amlani suggested! Only if you were at the show would you ever know what Linda Goodman wrote about the Libran smile. Someone from the crowd shouted Amitabh I love you…….you should have been there to see Mr. Bachan blush and smile……and that is what I call a smile that can light a thousand chandeliers. You missed something!
(Report abuse)
Amitji……I salute the way u have responded to Mr Gandhi in all your humility. I have left u responses several times but u never reply!
I have immense regard for your mom as much as I revere your Dad. I have read Kya Bhoolon Kya yaad karoon….and I think your mom Teji Ji is one of the greatest women of her times.
(Report abuse)
Dear Amitabh,
It is rather your fate that you often looses one or another Gandhi. Certain Gandhi’s are born to rule and this Parag Gandhi is hurt because he have not met Big B during the “unforgettable”.
Moreover,Gandhi claims that Abhishek was his brother’s room mate ? Where and when is not known? If it is so you can go any time to Prateeksh or Jalsa and meet the Bachchans,dine with them the way Khalid Mohammed done. Why this much hue and cry?
Please cheer up as India got an Individual Gold in shooting. What the Indian Government had done for it.Mr.Abhinav Bindra’s parents spent their everything for this.For achieving this task how many crores is spent during these years and still Abhinav is not complaining on his rewards altogether amounting to Aprox.Rs.1.5 crores. It is a meager amount as far the expenses behind Abhinav’s achievements expenditure.
Ostensibly , your outburst only put in abeyance Big B’s determination to share about his his late mother Mrs. Teji H.Bachchan on her birthday. We hope this was done by you unknowingly and hence forgive you. “Err is human to refuse divine”.
Thanks,
HARI V.NAIR
BHARUCH[GUJ.]
(Report abuse)
hi sir,
it is really nice to hear such a heavy discussion and explaination from u………….
we ur fans can understand that the fans die to just see u once face to face……. but i think it is not possible for all……. as when big b goes billions of ppl follow him……. i also missed the chance to see u when u were in sandipani ( porbandar )…… but it is my promise that i will surely meet u once in my life and to abhishek as i m the biggest fan of abhishek……..
btw i just want to say one big THANK YOU……… because of the photos u uploaded in the site…….. here and unforgettable tour’s site…… i cannot say how much happy i m after seeing that photos……… just mind bolwing………..
so i cannot say anything more as i m too small to tell u something…… but my heart is smiling today and the tears of joy coming out from my eyes…….. just give me some blessings so that i can do some better work in my life and can achieve the goal of my life………..
thanks for being with us and pls be with us always……… we r really blessed by god to having u here…………..
with love……………….. nayan
(Report abuse)
Hello sir,
While I think that some of Mr. Gandhi’s comments were extreme (threatening retaliation by pirating the video, for example, is unnecessary) I do sympathize with his frustration if the events are true as he described them.
Unfortunately, I am inclined to believe that he did lose a lot of money to the promoters - there have been many problems and complaints with promoters throughout this entire tour from many different people. I think for future tours or events requiring promotion, it would be wise to deal with a different company or companies.
The issue of money keeps coming up. It started with the ticket prices. Which, in many locations, were unreasonably high. I attended the Toronto show, and the tickets were expensive. (Double the price of an Elton John ticket, which are already considered expensive!) I do recognize that Unforgettable is a very large production, with a cast of 150+ and has tremendous expenses. But, even so, ticket prices were quite high for the average person to afford, especially if they wanted to bring their family. The fact that you have been able to sell out all these venues regardless of pricing is a testament to how much the people love you and the other stars on tour.
Having said that, I feel that I got my money’s worth from the show. I don’t feel slighted, personally. And I also recognize that you, and the other performers in the show, are not in control of things like ticket pricing, meet and greets (and any payment for those), etc. A lot of the blame for these situations gets put on the stars, when it shouldn’t be your concern. But the promoters have to answer to somebody, right? They are certainly not answering to the fans, so the fans feel they must appeal to the stars who could in turn appeal to the promoters.
I am curious about the family from Florida who allegedly paid 20,000$ to attend the meet and greet. If any promoter was attempting to charge someone that much, there is a serious problem that needs to be investigated. It’s upsetting to think that people are taking advantage, financially, of these fans who are so dedicated that they’d pay thousands of dollars for a handshake and a photograph. If it’s true, it’s not acceptable.
I’ve been too wordy, but to conclude, I’d investigate what’s going on with these promoters, and choose different promoters in future.
Now please tell us about your mother.
Love Melanie
(Report abuse)
Dear Amitjee
I totally agree with you, this Mr Gandhi has unfairly brought you in to this escapade.
You are one hundred per cent right in your response, dear Amitjee we lookk forward to you writing about your dear mom.
Keep the faith, you are not in no way reponsible for these events.
Have a nice vening and await in earnest your blog tommorow.
Regards
Amer
Big B Y ahoo Group London
(Report abuse)
One more effort, and day 111(i) entire entry to write about your mother, i think that will make you feel better and we would enjoy that rather than reading this another hypocrite trying to accuse you for something you are not part of.
Awaiting Day 111(i) entry dedicated to your mother.
(Report abuse)
Dear Sir,
wow - what a mess. It’s good of you to respond to Mr. Gandhi, who certainly has a right to be disappointed, if he was promised a personal meeting with you.
But in my personal opinion he has acted a little careless in paying so much money for a “meet & greet” in the first place, and also in taking their poor newborn baby to a venue which will be incomprehensible and possibly disturbing for such a small child.
Unfortunately, this isn’t the first time that kind of thing happened. There have been several indicents in the past, when SRK fans in Europe had been promised meetings with their favourite star before or after a concert by some promoter; they payed lots of money and never got to meet him after all. Stars like you and companies like Wizcraft really have to look carefully at their local promoters, since there are many nonprofessionals out there who only want to make some quick money before disappearing again. Maybe sometimes organizers of Bollywood shows could consider the attribute ‘professional’ as more important than ‘Indian’, when choosing their local partners.
Anyway - I hope this mess will be sorted out soon and we will get to read the post about your mother. I’d love to learn more about her!
Love and regards,
Elisabeth
(Report abuse)
Dear Amitji,
Thank you very much for your response as well as the post against which you responded. One truth has more power than thousands of lies. The lesson is we really need to be honest to ourselves, that matters. Thank you.
(Report abuse)
Mr. Bachchan,
You have explained everything very clearly. I hope Parag Gandhi will understand and give you public apology.
To Parag,
You should not behave with Mr. Bachchan in this manner. You should know that it is promoters falut and if you want, you can take them to court but you have no right, no right to threaten Mr. Bachchan like that.
It is with very heavy heart, i have to tell you that being a gujju you have put us down.
Again, if you have the proof (cheque or Credit card receipt), you can take the promoters to court. It is as simple as that. But you shold apologies to Mr.
Bachchan right now!
Regards
Mayur
(Report abuse)
There is always few bad moments attached with the good ones. Dont take it seriously buddy. It does happen sometimes. Hope u have overcome this feeling now. Cheer up and try only to remember happy moments of the tour.
Still waiting for your reply. Talk to me.
Regards,
Ayesha (Lahore)
(Report abuse)
I met your Mom in Breach candy hospital August 1982. I think she had a great personality and when I talked to her, I realised that only she could be your mom. She was so confident, talked so nicely and really discussed every issue about your health with the concerned doctors. I have not come across any lady who has a more impressive personality than her. May GOD give peace to her soul
(Report abuse)
Dear Amitji,
U are really great enough to tolerate such nonsense.Good going just dont pay attention .UR all fans r with u and your super success
All the best
love
regards
(Report abuse)
Hi Amit uncle,
you respond very effectively in difficult situations. I think its important for fans to realize the details behind each show. So dragging the artists into this uncalled for. I would rather help someone get an education here in teh United States or for a good cause.
Please do write about your mother. I am waiting to read about it.
There is a lot to learn from you everyday. This world is a better place because of you Amit uncle. And I shall always thank you for that.
I wanted to ask you about your father’s autobiography. Is it translated into English? You referred earlier in your blogs that a collection of poems written by your father will soon be published. Is it published yet?
You did a fantastic job in Atlantic City. Thank you for everything.
Love,
Niki
(Report abuse)
I have requested to Parag at his email id paragandhi@yahoo.com to send that recorded clever moments, the bad cops has to be punish, all my heart goes to those poor fans who has suffered.hahaha…testing time, what to do?? fans are paying to meet and greet?? is it contemporary ??
(Report abuse)
Dear Mr. Bachchan,
The way you have replied to Mr. Gandhi’s plea is completely justified and in a very dignified way. In any case why should the artists be held responsible for something that they are absolutely not involved with.
My husband and I drove all the way from Columbus, Oh to Atlantic City, NJ almost 10 hours drive at one stretch which was no jokes considering it was NOT a long weekend. We are back in Columbus and so tired!!!!!!! but when we remember the show, all the tiredness is forgotten and its so much fun describing the show to our friends..and everytime we describe our words end with “AMITABH IS AMITABH…..NO ONE CAN BE LIKE HIM..”..especially the dialogues from Agneepath, Deewar and Kabhie Kabhie were mindblowing.
We felt totally worth driving such a long distance to catch a glimpse of you. We wanted to buy higher priced tickets but then as we were driving and considering the high gas prices, the whole trip fare, we thought its better we should do whatever we can manage the trip to be affordable and enjoyable…and GUESS what..we were sitting very close to from where Abhishek made an entry form the audience..It was awesome to see him so close…loved the entire show and professionalism. All stars were simply great and love the fact the way you guys are creating awareness on GLOBAL WARMING as I feel people follow stars and their words, so this kind of awareness stays in mind, especially we were remembering to switch off our car engines at signals, and many more things shown in the presentations at the show..
Last but not the least, I would say not just the Stars, the energy and the enthusiasm of all the dancers in every song and dance performance was NOTICEABLE and is highly commendable, I think you should really tell all the dance artistes that their work was also APPRECIATED greatly and not just the STARS were visible…I think that will make their day and encourage them to have more fun on stage without getting tired…
Overall the show was really UNFORGETTABLE…Got to see YOU and everyone else..Dont know when I will get to MEET you…but never mind ..am happy with the memories of the show at present :)))))))
Love,
Rohini
Columbus,OH
(Report abuse)
Hi Amitji
How r u..? we r getting the news from our friends in US about the Unforgattable.
You and ur entire team are rocking …..
Great Going SIRJI
Regards
Bhavnit
(Report abuse)
Sir,
While it is pertinent that you bring up the issue of Mr. Gandhi as well as publicly defend your intergrity, one does wonder what the other side of the story is? Why has Mr. Gandhi chosen the public forum to raise his concerns about the attitude of the promoters? Does an official ticket to the concert and for meet-n-greet really cost $ 20,000? (Thats 8 Lacs….huge amount of money). To spend that kind of money for something that you wished for and then not getting it is bound to hurt a lot.
I hope the promoters are not taking advantage of your name. I am sure you do realise that the harsh words used by Mr. Gandhi have their basis in the time and money invested in hoping to meet you and then not been able to. Who else do you rant against but the person you wanted to meet.
I hope your addressal of the issue would give some solace to Mr. Gandhi. Although we all understand that things of this nature are not in your control, it is also true that at the end of the day the time and money investment is ONLY to meet you and share a few moments with you.
With respect,
Kaushal V
(Report abuse)
and ya i just forget in my emotions to tell about mrs teji bachchanji,
i can just say that she were the great lady, the great mother, the great grandmaa, the great wife…… and the one whom we can never forget…………
and whenever she is right now, is must be happy having the son like u and the family like bachchans ( jayaji, abhi, ash, shwetaji and all members).
by the way i just want to say that if i will send some gifts for u and abhishek will u accept it?
(Report abuse)
i uncle
i do understand mr parag’s plight…and i appreciate he brought it into ur notice but he is wrong in acuusing u and the stars…as far as giving money to propmoters is concerned , iam sure he is right..but he shoukld aplogise for blaming you…hope he understands…waiting to read about teji aunty.
love
olivia
p.s. where r the latest snaps of the show…pls post them …its ahumble request
(Report abuse)
Mr Bachan,
Once more you took an unpleasant situation and treadted it with the dignity and honesty that you are capable of doing. Please continue to go out there to the rest of the Unforgetable Tour engagements and perform the best that you can and in my opinion you still rock the boat. according to Absheik in an interview read on India Fm ” when assked how he feels to be dancing with the Big B, his answer was that not pressured at all, since all eyes are on the Big B himself, and he is quite right”. Mr Bachan, your honesty and the love and respect that you have for your fans is all that is needed to take you through this hurdle, remember the old saying one bad apple do not spoil the rest.
With our love and blessing always …PS please tell us about your mom, we would love to listen..
(Report abuse)
i agree with you. i would like to ask mr. gandhi did you ask Mr. bachchan to spend money for that? why you involve him in this matter that he didn’t aware of that. i think promoter should cancel this meet and greet event
(Report abuse)