Entertainment

Amitabh Bachchan Celebrates 84th Birthday as Son Abhishek Reflects on Father’s Human Side

By Ankita Kanabar

Amitabh Bachchan turns 84 on October 11. As messages of congratulations arrive from family, friends and fans worldwide, it is a fitting moment to revisit a heartfelt conversation with his son, Abhishek Bachchan. Abhishek has long admired his father as a hero, yet he has also spoken about the man behind the legendary star, emphasizing that Amitabh is a father and grandfather like any other. In an exclusive interview with ETimes last year, Abhishek reflected on his 26‑year journey in the film industry, including its highs and lows. When asked whether his father felt proud of the work he had done since his debut, Abhishek said that Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan value their children’s efforts beyond professional success. "I think my father and mother would be proud of anything that I do, provided they know that I've given it my best. People forget he's also a father. For us, Amitabh Bachchan is a hero. So, we never look at it from that lens, but he's also a family man! He's a father, he's a grandfather. For some reason we think, 'Oh no, he's not allowed to be that or be human', but he is. He's also a father, and my mother is also a mother. I'm their child. They're allowed to feel the way every other parent would feel," he said. Abhishek also explained how growing up in a family constantly associated with fame helped him maintain perspective on success and popularity. He said he has never been overly attached to the idea of fame, noting that his experiences at home taught him how quickly public attention can change. "Fame is transient. I grew up with examples at home. When my father came home, he wasn't Amitabh Bachchan, he was my father. Fame aayega, jayega and you realise it with just a couple of films," he added. Amitabh Bachchan is currently hosting the latest season of "Kaun Banega Crorepati." Meanwhile, Abhishek will next appear in "King," which also stars Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, Suhana Khan and others. The film is scheduled to release this Christmas.