The Neighbour with a 'Front-Row' View of Amitabh Bachchan's Sunday Ritual
For decades, Amitabh Bachchan's Sunday morning ritual has been a cherished spectacle for Bollywood enthusiasts. Every week, the legendary actor emerges from his Juhu residence, Jalsa, to greet his devoted fans. However, a recent viral video has offered a fresh and intimate perspective on this iconic tradition, courtesy of a neighbour who enjoys a unique vantage point.
A Viral Clip from Next Door
The video, shared by Instagram user Nirmit Jesrani, captures Bachchan interacting with fans outside Jalsa. In the background, a young man is visible watching from the window of the adjacent building. At one poignant moment, he folds his hands in a respectful greeting, directed toward the megastar. Nirmit playfully addresses the mystery in his post, asking, "Who is this guy behind Amitabh Ji in these videos?" before revealing, "It is me, Nirmit Jesrani."
Nirmit, who resides next door to the Bachchan family, shared a heartfelt message for the actor. He expressed, "Amitabh Bachchan sir, I am your neighbour. I just wanted to give you a message that we are very grateful. We are thankful from the bottom of our hearts. After greeting your fans, every Sunday you wave back at us, acknowledge our presence. Your humility and warmth mean more than words. Sir, if I could get an opportunity to meet you, I would be very very grateful."
Netizens React with Humour and Admiration
As expected, the video quickly garnered widespread attention, with netizens flooding the comment section with playful and affectionate remarks. One user humorously noted, "Yeh baat to aap balcony se bhi bol sakte the," while another joked, "Aap Cheeni mangne jaaiye kabhi, ya apne ghar ki puja k liye koi chouki, padosi se aise hi mila jata hai!"
Other comments included light-hearted suggestions like, "Apna Ghar Rekha ji ko rent pe dedoo?" and "Oo hello bro wo sb apke liye aate wo Amitabh sir beech mai aa jate hai." A fan even made a reference to Bachchan's film Shahenshah, stating, "Rishte mei toh hum aapke padosi lagte hai lol."
The Significance of Bachchan's Barefoot Greeting
One of the most distinctive aspects of Bachchan's Sunday ritual is his decision to greet fans barefoot. This gesture has often sparked curiosity among observers. The actor once explained the profound reasoning behind it in his blog, stating, "You go to the temple bare feet… my well wishers are my temple." This sentiment underscores the deep respect and gratitude he holds for his supporters.
The Origins of a 45-Year Tradition
The Sunday tradition traces its roots back to 1982, following a near-fatal accident on the sets of Coolie. Bachchan's condition was critical, and he spent several weeks in the hospital. Upon his return home on September 24, 1982, fans gathered to celebrate his recovery. Since that day, Big B has continued to greet them every Sunday at Jalsa. Reflecting on this, he once tweeted, "When I got hurt in 1982 during the shoot of 'Coolie', people prayed for my health and recovery, I can never forget that. It's something owed to my well‑wishers."
Bachchan's Residences and Upcoming Projects
Amitabh Bachchan currently resides in Jalsa, located in the upscale Juhu neighbourhood of Mumbai. He also owns Prateeksha, his first family home, along with other notable residences such as Janak and Vatsa. On the professional front, fans can look forward to seeing him in the highly anticipated sci-fi sequel Kalki 2898 AD and the courtroom drama Section 84.
This viral video not only highlights the enduring appeal of Amitabh Bachchan's Sunday ritual but also showcases the unique bond he shares with those in his immediate community. Nirmit Jesrani's perspective offers a touching reminder of the actor's humility and the special connection he maintains with both fans and neighbours alike.