In a heartwarming revelation that highlights the deep bonds within Indian cinema, veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan recently shared an extraordinary story about Kannada legend Dr. Rajkumar's emotional response to his near-fatal accident during the filming of Coolie in 1982.
The Temple Floor Prayer That Shook Bollywood
During a candid conversation, Bachchan disclosed how Dr. Rajkumar, upon hearing about the serious injury that left the Bollywood icon fighting for his life, immediately rushed to a temple and performed an intense prayer ritual that moved everyone who witnessed it.
"He went to the temple, lay down on the floor, and started rolling," Bachchan revealed, describing the emotional scene. "He was praying to God, saying 'Please save him, I'll give you anything, but please save his life.'"
A Friendship Beyond Regional Cinema Boundaries
This powerful gesture underscores the remarkable camaraderie that existed between two of Indian cinema's biggest stars, despite belonging to different film industries. Dr. Rajkumar, the reigning superstar of Kannada cinema, and Bachchan, the undisputed king of Bollywood, shared a mutual respect that transcended regional boundaries.
The Coolie accident, which occurred during a fight sequence in Bangalore University, left Bachchan with a severe intestinal injury that brought him dangerously close to death. The entire nation held its breath as news of his critical condition spread across the country.
When an Entire Industry Held Its Breath
Bachchan's recollection paints a vivid picture of the anxiety that gripped the Indian film fraternity during those tense days. The fact that Dr. Rajkumar, himself a cinematic legend, would perform such an emotional public prayer demonstrated the genuine concern felt throughout the industry.
"This story remained largely untold for decades," Bachchan noted, emphasizing how this profound display of friendship and concern was one of the most touching responses he received during his recovery period.
A Legacy of Inter-Industry Solidarity
This revelation comes as a powerful reminder of the unity that can exist within India's diverse film industries. The incident showcases how regional superstars and Bollywood icons have historically supported each other during times of crisis, setting an example for future generations of actors.
Bachchan's survival and subsequent return to full health marked one of Indian cinema's most miraculous recoveries, made even more memorable by the heartfelt prayers and support from colleagues like Dr. Rajkumar.
