Stories of super-stardom touch the heart, particularly when
they are tinged with a narrative of heartwarming struggle, thoughtful gestures
and incredible foresight. This is a story which is unique for it has elements
of all three narratives.
This was a time when Amitabh Bachchan was struggling to gain a
foothold in the film industry. He would
do the rounds of film studios, approach film producers and directors asking
them for even a small role, any role in their upcoming films. Among the many
studios he would go to was where Shashi Kapoor would be shooting. Amitabh had
built a fledgling friendship with the star son who himself had just about become
a bankable hero in the film industry.
Shashi Kapoor felt very comfortable around Amitabh, impressed
by his humility and the dedication he exuded towards finding his own space in
the industry. His father, Prithviraj Kapoor already held Amitabh’s father,
Harvanshrai Bachchan in high esteem, and following in their footsteps, Shashi
Kapoor and Amitabh Bachchan too, valued
their newfound friendship.
One day, when Shashi Kapoor walked onto the film set where his
film was being shot, he saw that a crowd scene was being shot…and was
completely taken aback to see that Amitabh Bachchan was among one in the crowd.
After the shot was canned, he called Amitabh aside and asked
him what he was doing. Amitabh explained that he had managed to convince the
director to let him too be a part of an agitating crowd. Shashi Kapoor told
Amitabh bluntly that if he had come here to become a hero, then doing such bit
roles would irreparably harm his career. He would be slotted as an extra, a
character artiste who would never be taken seriously as an actor.
Amitabh heard him out in silence, and then sheepishly told him
that he had no choice. He knew all the arguments Shashi had put forth, but was
forced to do it as he was running very low on finances. in fact, his very
survival in the city was at stake. Shashi Kappor offered him the money, even
telling him that he could consider it a loan – but Amitabh had his pride and he
wouldn’t listen to him. Once he finished all the crowd scenes, he collected his
payment, said his byes to Shashi Kapoor and left the set.
Shashi Kapoor however wasn’t done as yet. He immediately met
the director of the film and told him in no uncertain terms that Amitabh was
destined for greater things. So he, the director had to ensure that every
identifiable shot of Amitabh’s would be edited out from the film.
After all, if his friend's voice had to be heard, how could he
let him sing in the chorus?
The accompanying song is from the movie "Suhaag," a Manmohan Desai film which does full justice to their friendship - both on and off screen.
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