Celebrated actor Abhishek Bachchan, a star who has graced the silver screen for over 20 years, recently added another candle to his birthday cake. With a career spanning more than two decades, Bachchan is no stranger to the ebbs and flows of the movie business. On this special day, we delve into his perspectives on filmmaking, career choices, and how fatherhood has influenced his role selection in the industry.
Through a candid conversation, Bachchan shares the realities of persistence in the world of cinema. “You have to remind yourself every day that there is magic. It’s the hope that ruins you,” he confides. This sentiment encapsulates the roller-coaster ride of emotions an actor often experiences. He recounts tales of fellow actors who have risen from a series of flops to success, fueling his optimism even when a film’s initial reception is tepid.
So where does the magic for Bachchan lie? It exists in the medium’s ability to weave compelling narratives and allow him to adopt myriad personas. Moving forward with deliberate choices in his “second innings,” Bachchan has aligned himself with films like Manmarziyaan, Bob Biswas, and the forthcoming Ghoomer, a sports drama directed by R Balki. These selections are testament to his commitment to participating in storytelling that speaks to him on a deeper level.
When it comes to the types of projects he steers clear of, the actor’s stance is firm and is significantly influenced by his role as a father. With an unequivocal voice, Bachchan says, “Now, more so as a parent, I won’t be comfortable doing a film I can’t show my daughter [Aaradhya].” He respects the artistic freedom of others but prioritizes the standards he has set for himself based on his family values.
However, with all the art and passion infused into the craft, Bachchan is acutely aware that commercial success cannot be overlooked. It’s paramount to appease the audience’s wishes. Reflecting on the cultural context in India, where heroes hold a place much larger than life, he acknowledges fans’ desires. Whether it’s the yearning for the iconic ‘Bachchan-ism’ or Shah Rukh Khan’s signature sprawling-arm pose, there’s a tug-of-war between appeasing fans and the artist’s internal drive to break the mold and explore new realms. “You are selling tickets. So, you’ve got to do what they want you to do,” Bachchan asserts, while also cautioning against the creative stagnation that can ensue from finding and lingering too long in that safe space of balance.
As he embraces another year, we see Bachchan as an actor who deeply understands his role in the cinematic landscape—not simply as a performer but as a storyteller, a hero in the eyes of his audience, and a father who aspires to bring admirable characters to life, both on-screen and at home.
Bachchan’s journey is reflective of his growth, both personal and professional. From his early days in the industry, marked by the inevitable comparison with his legendary father Amitabh Bachchan, to his current status as a lauded actor in his own right, his evolution is evident. With each role, Bachchan has pushed his creative boundaries while maintaining his integrity. As he celebrates another year, fans and industry insiders alike are keen to see where his discerning choices will take him next.
As the lights dim and the camera focuses, the magic of the movies that Abhishek Bachchan talks about continues to resonate with audiences, with the hope that Monday, or any day, will bring the recognition and adoration such commitment to the craft deserves. Here’s to another year of Abhishek Bachchan choosing stories that buzz with relatability, resonate with his values, and captivate the hearts of cine-goers around the world.
