The Amitabh Bachan Phenomenon
Amitabh Bachan has appeared in over 130 films, many of them, particularly those from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s, were huge hits. Every hit, bringing him closer to the masses. Because he portrayed the Man from every walk of life. The honest and the bold Police officer, the shy Lover, the angry and disappointed Youth, the Mine worker, the Singer, the Porter, the Waiter, the freedom fighter, the Politician fighting against corruption, and the list is endless. He was the people's own representative. Their Messiah. This became evident after his legendary accident during the filming of the movie, "Coolie". He had almost bid farewell to the mortal world, if not for the wishes and prayers of the millions of those masses. Many, who actually went through physical penance, for the recovery of their Hero. It was as if their life had come to a standstill, till he emerged, out of his Coma.
He had gone into hibernation from films for a few years when he ventured into politics, to lend support to his friend, Rajiv Gandhi. Amitabh Bachan fought and won the election for the Parliament from his hometown, Allahabad in 1984, but within a short span of time he had to 'call it quits', due to some bitter experiences. After this, the legend sported a beard, flaunted his grey hair and floated his company ABCL. Not finding much success in that and on the contrary, incurring huge losses, he finally returned to the silver-screen. During this period, he did his best in some not so successful films, but his mighty comeback was with the Indian version of the hit BBC show, "Millionaire", "Kaun Banega Crorepati" in Star Plus. This show not just proved the veteran's skills of being a unique and fabulous host, but also brought him back to the hearts of his people. This time, even coser. To their living room. The Big B was back with a Big Bang. Many such shows followed in the rival channels, but none could even get close to the show of the King. KBC had become a part of people's lifestyle.Their routine for four days a week. Where else would they get more time with to spend time with the star and if persistent, some even got to be at the show sitting face to face, with 'their' Amitabh, in flesh and blood.
Amitabh Bachan's professionalism is still treated as the benchmark for many in the industry. Overwhelmed by the star's professionalism, an Indian battery manufacturer, the brand that the actor had endorsed, is making plans to gift the Mega star with a Mega Birthday Card, on his 62nd Birthday. The card will be 2 km long and will have 2000 scrolls to it. And, it will be signed by 6 lakh retailers of that brand across India. The impact, this thespian has created, on people's minds, is beyond description. I still remember my childhood, when my mom used to comb my hair and when i used to make a fuss of that hairstyle, she would convince me by saying, "Beta, this is Amitabh Bachan's hairstyle." My mom never had a problem combing my hair after that. Such is the impression he leaves on us. It is not only immense, but eternal.
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