Legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan has captivated audiences for over five decades with his versatile performances. However, it wasn’t always smooth sailing for the megastar according to actor Shekhar Suman. In a recent interview, Suman opened up about the hardships Bachchan faced in the beginning of his career.
Recalling an anecdote narrated by veteran actor Shashi Kapoor, Suman said producers were quite hostile towards Bachchan when his films weren’t faring well. They would rudely deride him as a “constipated actor” and have him thrown out of studios. Kapoor, who discovered Suman, had shared that some producers wouldn’t work without Bachchan later on, despite treating him in that demeaning manner previously.
Suman also recounted Bachchan mentioning in an interview about facing rejection early on. His audition for a news reader role at All India Radio was declined as they felt his voice wasn’t suited. Comments about his tall frame and appearance also dampened his confidence.
In one of the more stinging experiences, Bachchan told Suman that he was verbally abused while sitting in his car with parents after an unsuccessful shoot. The individual scolded him harshly and questioned why he was even in the industry. It must have been disheartening but he braved through adversity.
Through it all, Bachchan’s unwavering belief in himself is what kept him going. Despite over a decade of back-to-back flops, humiliation and naysayers, he gave it his all and emerge a legend. His story shows the importance of perseverance and resilience which are truly tested in one’s rookie stages.
