In a heartwarming tribute at the audio launch of their upcoming film Vettaiyan, Rajinikanth shared an inspiring story about his long-time friend and colleague, Amitabh Bachchan. Known for their iconic pairings in Bollywood classics like “Andha Kanoon” and “Hum,” the duo last appeared together on screen over three decades ago. Their reunion is highly anticipated, and Rajinikanth’s reflections on Amitabh’s early struggles provide a poignant backdrop to their collaboration.
From Financial Struggles to Resilience
At the audio launch event held in Chennai on September 20, Rajinikanth took a moment to recount Amitabh’s tough times in the film industry. He highlighted a particularly challenging period when Amitabh faced severe financial difficulties, to the point where he was unable to pay even his watchman. Rajinikanth described how Amitabh’s iconic Juhu house was on the brink of auction, with many in Bollywood eagerly awaiting his downfall.
However, instead of succumbing to pressure, Amitabh’s determination shone through. Rajinikanth noted, “Despite the laughter and mockery from others, Amitji worked tirelessly for three years, doing various advertisements and the hugely popular KBC. His dedication not only helped him regain stability but also allowed him to purchase three additional homes.”
A Tribute to Hard Work and Dedication
Even at the age of 82, Amitabh Bachchan continues to embody resilience and hard work, reportedly putting in 10 hours a day on set. Rajinikanth praised his friend for not only surviving in a competitive industry but thriving against all odds, an inspiring message for both fans and aspiring actors.
Rajinikanth also recalled an incident that emphasized Amitabh’s significance beyond just films. He shared that when Amitabh had a serious accident, Indira Gandhi, who was abroad at the time, rushed back to visit him in the hospital. This incident revealed the deep connections Amitabh has forged throughout his life, including his friendship with Rajiv Gandhi, as both had attended school together.
Excitement for Vettaiyan
The anticipation surrounding Vettaiyan is immense, with a star-studded cast that includes Manju Warrier, Ritika Singh, Dushra Vijayan, Rana Daggubati, and Fahadh Fasil. The film is set to release in theaters on October 10, directed by TJ Gnanavel. Originally, it was scheduled to clash with another film, Kanguva, but Kanguva’s team has since postponed their release to November 14, giving Vettaiyan a clearer path to box office success.
Remembering “Hum”
The last film that featured both Amitabh and Rajinikanth together was the 1991 blockbuster “Hum.” Directed by Mukul Anand, the film was a massive hit and remains a beloved classic in Indian cinema. Amitabh’s performance earned him the Filmfare Award for Best Actor in 1992, highlighting his exceptional talent and dedication to the craft.
Rajinikanth’s stories about Amitabh Bachchan not only shed light on the actor’s perseverance through adversity but also serve as a reminder of the strong bonds of friendship in the film industry. As their reunion approaches, fans can look forward to witnessing their legendary partnership once again on the big screen.
