Amitabh Bachchan, the iconic figure of Indian cinema, often shares his thoughts and reflections on social media, particularly cherishing the memories of his parents, the late Harivansh Rai Bachchan and Teji Bachchan. In numerous posts and blog entries, he expresses how deeply their upbringing has shaped his life and continues to influence his decisions.
Harivansh Rai Bachchan, a renowned Hindi poet, and Teji Bachchan, a social activist, instilled in their son values that resonate even today. Amitabh has frequently spoken about how his parents' teachings guide him at every step. He often contemplates how they would have handled various situations, finding that the answers often become clear when viewed through the lens of their wisdom.
Born in Allahabad (now Prayagraj) on October 11, 1942, Amitabh was raised in a middle-class family. His father's literary prowess and his mother's commitment to social welfare created an environment rich with intellectual and ethical values. Teji Bachchan, a Punjabi Sikh from Lyallpur, was a strong and influential figure, while Harivansh Rai Bachchan, an Awadhi Hindu Kayastha, was known for his profound understanding of Hindi, Urdu, and Awadhi languages.
Amitabh's early life was marked by simplicity and strong familial bonds. His parents initially named him Inquilab Shrivastava, inspired by the revolutionary phrase "Inquilab Zindabad," but later changed it to Amitabh, meaning "one with boundless light," on the suggestion of the poet Sumitranandan Pant. The surname "Bachchan" was adopted to avoid caste associations, as Harivansh Rai was against the caste system.
Amitabh received his education at Sherwood College in Nainital and later graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Kirori Mal College, Delhi University. Despite his academic background, his passion for acting led him to pursue a career in Bollywood. His mother played a significant role in supporting his aspirations, even seeking guidance from Prithviraj Kapoor.
Teji Bachchan was not only a social activist but also had close ties with the Nehru-Gandhi family. Amitabh spent considerable time with Rajiv and Sanjay Gandhi, and the family's connections extended to welcoming Sonia Gandhi when she first arrived in India.
In his reflections, Amitabh often acknowledges the enduring impact of his parents' love and blessings. He emphasizes that they are never far from his thoughts, influencing his actions and decisions. This deep respect and appreciation for his parents are recurring themes in his public expressions.
Amitabh's personal life is also closely tied to his family. He married actress Jaya Bhaduri on June 3, 1973, and they have two children: Shweta Bachchan Nanda and Abhishek Bachchan. The Bachchan family is known for its strong bonds and dignified public image. They reside primarily at their Mumbai home, Jalsa, and also own another property called Pratiksha.
Amitabh Bachchan's career began in 1969, and he rose to fame in the 1970s with films like "Zanjeer" and "Sholay," earning him the title of "Angry Young Man." His journey has been marked by numerous successes, setbacks, and controversies, but through it all, he credits the values instilled by his parents for keeping him grounded.
In moments of despair and tribulation, Amitabh has often turned to the teachings and memories of his parents. He acknowledges their role in shaping his resilience and guiding him through difficult times. His recent emotional notes reflect a deep sense of gratitude for their unwavering support and the principles they instilled in him.
