On the occasion of legendary filmmaker Yash Chopra’s 93rd birth anniversary on September 27, Amitabh Bachchan fondly recalls his bond with the director, their unforgettable films together, and how Mohabbatein marked the turning point in his career. In this conversation, Bachchan opens up about their friendship, iconic collaborations, and cherished memories.
Amitji, Yash Chopraji’s 93rd birth anniversary on September 27?
Gosh, how many years has he been gone? Thirteen years! It seems like just yesterday when I walked from my home to his bungalow to ask him for work.
You have told me this earlier. I would like to see Yashji’s face when THE Amitabh Bachchan asks for work?
But it is true! This was the year 2000, and I was jobless. I had no films on hand.
That was because you were in transition from the conventional hero’s role?
Whatever the reason, I was sitting at home when one fine morning I strolled over to his home and asked to be cast. He immediately offered me Mohabbatein, and I was working again.
Mohabbatein began your second innings?
If you want to put it that way.
Earlier you did some of your most memorable films with Yashji?
Yes, Deewaar, Kala Patthar, Trishul… All a major part of my career.
Deewaar was a turning point in your career?
We never planned it to make Deewaar what it is. No one can plan a classic. Guru Dutt didn’t tell himself, ‘All right, let’s make a classic,’ when he decided to make Kagaz Ke Phool. Not that I’m comparing Deewaar to any of the classics.
But it is a classic?
That is for critics like you to decide. We did our work not thinking of how it would be assessed fifty years later.
Yash Chopra was a family friend?
We were very close. Working with Yashji was always a pleasure. With him, it never felt like work. We would be constantly playing games between shots, eating, chatting. It was like a picnic.
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