In a heartfelt reflection on her experiences during the filming of the classic Bollywood movie 'Satte Par Satta', veteran actor Kalpana Iyer opened up about observing Amitabh Bachchan up close. She emphasized that his consistent professionalism, particularly his unwavering commitment to punctuality, left a deep and lasting impression on her throughout their collaboration.
Punctuality as a Core Value Learned from Bachchan
Speaking in an exclusive conversation, Iyer described Bachchan as deeply committed to punctuality, a habit that she found profoundly impactful. She recalled how his practice of arriving early on set, regardless of the call time or shooting location, set a remarkable standard during their film shoot in Mumbai and beyond. This behavior, she noted, reinforced the importance of respecting others' time in both personal and professional spheres.
Memories from the Satte Par Satta Shoot
Iyer shared specific anecdotes from the production, highlighting their early-morning travel schedules in Mumbai. She explained, "I did a movie called Satte Par Satta. Amit ji used to stay in Juhu, and I used to stay in Andheri, and we had to go all the way to Ballard Pier early in the morning at 6 am. Both Amit ji and I used to have a white Ambassador, and clockwise, he used to reach on time every day."
She added that she would typically arrive just five minutes after him, yet he would already be there at a time when no one else had reached. Iyer stressed that this discipline was not limited to one instance; she observed him maintaining the same punctuality in other places as well, making it a standout trait of his character.
Life Lessons and Professionalism
Reflecting on the values she learned during the shoot, Iyer emphasized punctuality as one of the most important qualities a person can possess. She told IANS, "I had learned a very important life lesson from my mother - A person who reaches everywhere on time has been blessed with the best upbringing. When you learn to value people's time, that is the most important trait to have, to inherit, and to pass on."
According to Iyer, Bachchan made punctuality a priority every single day, ensuring he arrived on time even when others were not present. This consistency, she believes, exemplifies true professionalism and serves as an inspiration for others in the industry and beyond.
Conclusion and Legacy
Iyer concluded by reiterating the message she feels everyone should embrace: "Reach on time, value time." Her recollections not only shed light on Bachchan's exemplary work ethic but also highlight the enduring impact of such values in shaping successful careers and relationships.
Kalpana Iyer, born on July 26, 1956, enjoyed a prolific career in Hindi cinema through the 1980s and 1990s as both an actor and singer. With appearances in over 100 films, she earned recognition for popular dance numbers and a steady stream of supporting roles, maintaining a familiar presence on screen. Her insights into working with legends like Amitabh Bachchan offer a glimpse into the disciplined world of Bollywood's golden era.
