Anupam Kher reveals when he broke the barricade to meet Michael Jackson in Mumbai

 In 1996 India was swept up in excitement and enthusiasm as the legendary pop icon, Michael Jackson, graced Mumbai with his first-ever performance in the country. The mere mention of his name sent ripples of anticipation across the nation. Even Bollywood actor Anupam Kher, a dedicated fan himself, couldn't resist the magnetic pull of the King of Pop.

Talking of which Anupam Kher now took to his social media platform to share a precious memory from that fateful year, 1996. In his post, he unveiled a snapshot that encapsulated a momentous encounter between himself and the iconic Michael Jackson.

The photograph captured a young Anupam Kher, grinning from ear to ear, as he extended his hand to the King of Pop. Michael, dressed in his trademark red jacket and black hat, exuded his timeless charisma. Anupam Kher's fanboy excitement was palpable as he recounted the story behind this iconic image.

In the caption accompanying the photo, Anupam Kher narrated the tale, "Story Of This Pic: In 1996 the great #MichaelJackson performed in Mumbai. It was magical. Next evening around 25 chosen guests were invited to have an exclusive half-hour interaction with the #KingOfPop at Hotel Oberoi terrace gardens. I was over the moon at the mere thought of meeting one of the greatest performers of our times at such close quarters. I was there one hour before the scheduled meeting. So were the other 24 important people of Mumbai! There was a small platform erected as a kind of temporary stage. We were waiting- breathlessly. He finally arrived surrounded by his personal bodyguards. Tall & Tough! We were silent and in pure awe. Separated from him by a makeshift barricade. He was smiling and we were staring. I thought this was a historical moment in my life. I can’t just stand there. I must at least shake his hands if not hug him. So I broke the barricade. Jumped on the tiny stage.” 

The suspense of the moment escalated as Anupam Kher made his daring move. “Realising that I had invaded the stage unannounced and not knowing who I was Michael’s bodyguards were about to pounce on me and throw me away. Seeing what could have happened, the show’s promoter #BharatBhaiShah in complete panic screamed loudly, “Don’t!!! He is the BIGGEST SUPERHERO OF THE COUNTRY!” Bodyguards stopped! #MJ held my hand softly. Acknowledged me respectfully. At exact that moment somebody clicked the pic. And history got created. For ME! All other guests just stood there. FROZEN!! #KuchBhiHoSaktaHai.”

As for Anupam Kher's professional journey, he recently graced the screen in "IB71" and is set to captivate audiences once again in the upcoming web series "The Freelancer," alongside Mohit Raina and Kashmira Pardeshi. Directed by Bhav Dhulia and created by Neeraj Pandey, this promising production is set to premiere on Disney+ Hotstar, promising to offer viewers an engaging and compelling narrative.