In the glittering world of Bollywood, where egos often clash with schedules, Amitabh Bachchan stands as a beacon of punctuality. Veteran performer Kalpana Iyer’s memories from ‘Satte Pe Satta’ paint a vivid picture of the legend’s commitment, turning a simple shoot into a lifelong lesson.
The film, released in 1982, captured Bachchan at his versatile best, but off-screen, his routine was equally compelling. Iyer disclosed, ‘Shoots started at 6 AM at Ballard Pier. From Juhu, he’d reach before anyone, in his modest white Ambassador.’ She, commuting from Andheri, often trailed behind despite her efforts.
Tying it to maternal wisdom, Iyer said, ‘Mom always stressed that punctuality reflects character. Bachchan ji made it real.’ His solitary early arrivals, sans the usual star trappings, left a profound impact. ‘It redefined professionalism for me—beyond dialogues, it’s about presence.’
These anecdotes from the Raj N. Sippy directorial highlight Bachchan’s grounded nature amid superstardom. The film’s enduring popularity mirrors his timeless appeal, but stories like Iyer’s reveal the man behind the myth.
As modern shoots grapple with delays, this throwback inspires. Bachchan’s discipline during those demanding days proves that respecting time elevates everyone involved, leaving a legacy far beyond the silver screen.