Amitabh Bachchan’s Piku co-actor Moushumi Chatterjee believes success ‘changed him’; ‘When you receive so much…’

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As a lifestyle expert with decades of experience in the film industry, I’ve had the privilege to observe and work with some of the most iconic figures in Bollywood. One such figure is the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, whose journey from struggling artist to superstar has been nothing short of remarkable.

In a recent interview, esteemed actress Moushumi Chatterjee – famously recognized for her role in Piku – discussed Amitabh Bachchan’s ascent to superstardom. Throughout their careers, they have worked together on numerous films such as Narendra Bedi’s Benaam, Manoj Kumar’s Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, and Basu Chatterjee’s 1979 success, Manzil. Reflecting upon Bachchan’s rise to fame, Moushumi observed how stardom affected his behavior, stating, “I wouldn’t say that he became big for the better, but when one receives such immense adoration, they tend to behave in a very distinct manner.

During an interview with Anandabazar Patrika, held in Bengali, Moushumi Chatterjee disclosed that Amitabh Bachchan endured considerable hardships during the initial stages of his career. She noted that after he achieved stardom, there seemed to be a shift in him, implying it might not have been a wholly beneficial metamorphosis.

Moushumi pointed out that when someone experiences great success, their behavior might change noticeably, causing them to become less inclined to assist others. She reminisced about Bachchan’s brother, Ajitabh, organizing a car to pick him up from the film sets and depicted him as a reserved individual who typically ate lunch by himself with the hairstylist.

Previously, they had appeared together in Piku, a touching comedy-drama helmed by Shoojit Sircar which delved into complex family dynamics and intergenerational struggles.

The movie primarily focuses on the character of Piku Banerjee, skillfully acted by Deepika Padukone, who is a determined architect navigating both her professional life and looking after her peculiar, hypochondriac father, Bhaskor Banerjee, brilliantly played by Amitabh Bachchan.

In the story, Bhaskor’s intense focus on his health, especially his bowel habits, serves as both comedic relief and a source of emotional resonance. Moushumi Chatterjee portrays Piku’s aunt, who is both nurturing and occasionally intrusive. The plot unfolds during a journey from Delhi to Kolkata, where the characters develop deeper relationships while grappling with their individual and family issues.

In a 2015 conversation with Hindustan Times, Chatterjee shared her appreciation for Amitabh Bachchan’s youthful eagerness and unwavering commitment to his craft, comparing it to the zeal of a fresh actor.

At the age of 72 in 2015, Amitabh displayed exceptional punctuality and discipline, readily starting work at 6 am if necessary.

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2024-12-22 12:52