In a revealing conversation, Abhishek Banerjee unfolded the chapters of his life that cast the legendary Amitabh Bachchan not just as an icon but as an enduring influence throughout his formative years and acting career.
Standing before an expectant audience at the Venice Film Festival, actor Abhishek Banerjee basked in the glory of a standing ovation for his latest film, ‘Stolen’. This was another accolade in his growing repertoire of compelling screen roles, spanning from feature films to web series. Amidst the buzz surrounding his celebrated performances, Banerjee recently graced an interview focused on his forthcoming movie ‘Section 84’, a project significant for its co-star, none other than Bollywood’s towering megastar, Amitabh Bachchan.
In a candid reflection, Banerjee delved into the profound impact Bachchan has had on his life, tracing back to the days when his youthful eyes first admired the silver screen. He reminisced, “When I was small and began watching films for the first time, it was all about him. He was the singular actor for me. Everyone else faded into the background.”
Growing up in an era where Bachchan’s filmography was not just entertainment but a cultural milestone, Banerjee described an almost spiritual connection to his oeuvre. “I was ecstatic each time he clinched an award. Whether it was watching him host KBC or seeing him thunder through roles, my life, in many ways, orbited around Amitabh Bachchan,” he confessed.
This connection extended beyond mere viewership; Banerjee’s footsteps inadvertently mirrored those of the Big B. “It’s quite serendipitous. I attended the same Alma mater, Kirori Mal College, and honed my acting skills at the same theatre group where Mr. Bachchan was once a student,” shared Banerjee, underscoring a legacy of shared spaces and mutual passions.
A notable moment in Banerjee’s trajectory was a diminutive yet momentous role in a short film titled ‘Bombay Talkies’, part of an anthology created by Anurag Kashyap. His brief appearance in ‘Murabba’, one segment of the film, was driven by the desire to be part of a narrative featuring Bachchan. “Even a ten-second role was invaluable if it meant sharing the cinematic frame with him,” he stated.
However, it is with ‘Section 84’ that Banerjee’s dream ascends to an unprecedented pinnacle. Describing the exhilaration of acting alongside his lifelong idol, he revealed, “It’s beyond surreal. To recite lines, engage with his gaze, and witness his performance up close — it was as though I was cheering from the sidelines all my life, and here I was, co-acting with the very person who inspired my cheers.”
This collaboration in ‘Section 84’ represents a personal full circle for Banerjee. The anticipation for the film’s release mirrors the excitement he once felt as a zealous fan, manifesting a childhood dream into a tangible reality.
While nostalgia permeated the discussion, Banerjee’s focus remains locked on the future with a slate of promising projects lined up. Audiences can look forward to his dynamic presence in sequels ‘Stree 2’, ‘Bhediya 2’, along with ‘Vedaa’, ‘Section 84’, and the already acclaimed ‘Stolen’.
Abhishek Banerjee’s narrative is one of dreams, influences, and the reverberating impact of cinematic legacies. His reflective journey from an awed spectator to a co-participant in storytelling alongside Amitabh Bachchan speaks volumes of his dedication and talent. It stands as a testament that for those who persevere, the line between aspiration and reality can indeed blur, materializing in ways one dare only dream. Banerjee’s continued passion for the craft and the homage he pays to icons of the industry signal an actor not only shaped by his role models but one who also aspires to inspire.
