In a fascinating revelation about one of Indian cinema's most revered icons, veteran actor Ranjeet has shed light on the profound discipline and personal rituals of superstar Amitabh Bachchan during their early days in the film industry. The anecdote highlights a side of Bachchan that goes beyond his towering screen presence, focusing on his dedication to family and spirituality.
The Discipline of a Legend: Letters and Scripture
During a recent conversation with Alpha Neon Studioz, Ranjeet recalled the time they worked together on the 1971 film Reshma Aur Shera, which was only Bachchan's second film after Saat Hindustani. Sharing a tent with the budding actor and two others, Ranjeet observed a consistent nightly and morning practice.
"He used to write something every night and recite prayers in the morning," Ranjeet shared. His curiosity piqued, Ranjeet eventually asked Bachchan about the ritual. The reply was a testament to the superstar's grounded nature. Bachchan revealed that he wrote letters to his parents every single night and read the Bhagavad Gita every morning. This, according to Ranjeet, was an unwavering part of his daily routine, showcasing a deep connection to his roots and faith even while on film shoots away from home.
A Glimpse into a Bygone Era of Dedication
Ranjeet offered this insight not just as a personal memory but as an example of the work ethic that defined actors of that generation. He emphasized that performers were deeply involved and even "obsessed" with their craft. This dedication is further illustrated by another story Ranjeet narrated, this time from the sets of their iconic 1982 comedy Namak Halaal.
The veteran actor recounted the behind-the-scenes story of the hilarious scene where Bachchan's character attempts to speak in English, delivering the famous "Bhairon becomes Baron..." dialogue. Ranjeet, who was wearing a wig for the scene, revealed that after the initial shoot, Bachchan felt he needed more preparation.
"He actually said that he will memorise this properly and do it tomorrow," Ranjeet said. Bachchan then left for his makeup room, and the shoot was packed up for the day. Demonstrating his professional commitment, Bachchan returned the next day and performed the complex scene perfectly in the first take, without a single cut. Ranjeet pointed out this meticulous approach as emblematic of the "kind of work that used to happen" during that era in Bollywood.
A Enduring Screen Partnership
The revelations add a new layer of understanding to the professional relationship between Ranjeet and Amitabh Bachchan, who have shared screen space in numerous hit films over the decades. Their collaborations include classics like Muqaddar Ka Sikandar, Laawaris, Suhaag, and Yaarana, alongside Namak Halaal and Reshma Aur Shera.
This glimpse into Bachchan's personal discipline—maintaining familial bonds through handwritten letters and seeking spiritual guidance from the Gita—resonates with the image of humility and dedication that his peers and fans have consistently attributed to him. It serves as a reminder of the values that often form the bedrock of enduring success, far removed from the glamour of the spotlight.
