Renowned filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra, known for his strict directorial style, recently shared a humorous yet poignant anecdote involving his mother and Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan. During the production of the 2007 film Eklavya: The Royal Guard, Chopra and Bachchan experienced significant disagreements, but their professional relationship culminated in a grand gesture that led to an unexpected family reaction.
Clashes on Set and Jaya Bachchan's Warning
Chopra recalled that tensions arose within a week of shooting Eklavya, with Bachchan initially arriving on set with minimal luggage. When questioned, Bachchan revealed that his wife, Jaya Bachchan, had warned him about Chopra's temperament, predicting he wouldn't last more than a few days. Despite this, Bachchan persevered, completing the film and earning Chopra's respect for his professionalism.
Budget Constraints and Creative Integrity
In line with his reputation for fiscal discipline, Chopra refused to book a Rs 65,000-per-night hotel room for Bachchan due to budget limitations. He emphasized the importance of equitable treatment among cast members, including Saif Ali Khan and Sanjay Dutt, to avoid overspending and maintain the film's nuanced quality. Chopra noted, "Money in arts is a very dangerous thing," highlighting how excessive costs can stifle creativity.
The Grand Gesture and Maternal Disapproval
Despite adhering to a strict budget during production, Chopra later expressed his gratitude to Bachchan by gifting him a luxurious Rolls Royce worth Rs 4.5 crore. At the time, Chopra himself drove a modest blue Maruti van. This act of generosity, however, did not sit well with his mother.
A Slap of Reality
Chopra vividly described the incident where he took his mother along to present the car to Bachchan. After the ceremony, she inquired about the gift's value, initially assuming it cost Rs 11 lakh. Upon learning the true price of Rs 4.5 crore, she slapped him, calling him "bewakoof" (foolish). Chopra reflected on this moment, stating, "I will never forget that because what is money if it can't give you joy."
Reason Behind the Extravagant Gift
Explaining his motivation, Chopra said he gifted the car because Bachchan "tolerated" his demanding nature during the shoot. He found it humbling that a star of Bachchan's stature endured his behavior, viewing it as a significant gesture of patience and professionalism.
This story sheds light on the complexities of Bollywood dynamics, where creative clashes can lead to lasting respect and unexpected personal consequences. Chopra's experience underscores the balance between artistic vision, financial prudence, and familial values in the film industry.
