Farhan Akhtar, the Bollywood star and director, recently discussed his experience while directing Amitabh Bachchan in the film Lakshya. This comes after the iconic actor revealed that Farhan once made him feel like a “nausikhiya.”
In an appearance on Aap Ki Adalat, Farhan emphasized that he never aimed to instruct Bachchan on acting. He acknowledged that his behavior during the shoot could have been misinterpreted due to his lack of directing experience and the rigid atmosphere of the Army cantonment where filming occurred.
Farhan recounted the pressures of directing such a significant project for the first time in a disciplined military setting. With strict timelines and permissions to adhere to, he felt immense weight to complete each scene promptly.
“On the first day, I was extremely anxious to stay on schedule. I thought it might be beneficial to have a private conversation with Mr. Bachchan to streamline the process,” Farhan shared.
Farhan explained that as Amitabh’s scenes were taking longer than anticipated, his intention for approaching him was entirely professional.
“I approached him, saying, 'Sir, if you’re facing any issues, please let me know so we can address them together.' I understand now that it may have been misinterpreted,” he admitted.
He added, “My eagerness as a newcomer may have suggested I was trying to 'coach' him, which was never my goal. I realized that he might have felt offended, so I apologized. My intentions were solely to ensure a smooth filming process.”
During a recent episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati 17 featuring Farhan and his father, renowned lyricist Javed Akhtar, Amitabh Bachchan recounted his own experience.
The veteran actor admitted feeling uneasy on the first day of shooting as he struggled to deliver his lines. “It was a completely different environment for me. There were numerous retakes, and I felt quite embarrassed,” he remarked.
Bachchan mentioned that Farhan later checked in with him, asking if he was having any difficulties. “I felt like I was being told how to act,” he joked, adding that he told his wife Jaya about it that night. She advised him to come home if he was uncomfortable, but he forged ahead, noting that the following day everything went smoothly.
Despite the initial misunderstanding, both veterans have expressed immense respect for one another. Amitabh often praises Farhan’s creative vision, while Farhan regards the seasoned actor as one of his cinematic inspirations.
Their collaboration on Lakshya is memorable not only for the story it conveys but also for the experiences that shaped Farhan's journey as a director.
Released in 2004, Lakshya marked Farhan Akhtar’s second directorial effort following Dil Chahta Hai. This war drama featured Hrithik Roshan, Preity Zinta, and Amitabh Bachchan amid the backdrop of the Kargil conflict.
Although the film underperformed at the box office initially, it has since garnered a cult following due to its inspiring narrative, remarkable performances, and stunning direction. Today, it is celebrated as one of Bollywood’s hidden gems.
Farhan Akhtar is set to appear in 120 Bahadur, directed by Razneesh Ghai, portraying Major Shaitan Singh alongside Raashii Khanna, Vivian Bhatena, and Ankit Siwach, with a release date of November 21.
Amitabh Bachchan continues to host Kaun Banega Crorepati 17 and is preparing for a sequel to Kalki 2898 AD, directed by Nag Ashwin, which is expected to start filming in December.
Federal government signs landmark agreements with Musqueam Nation, recognizing Aboriginal rights whi
Canada’s labour market faltered with a sharp drop in employment and higher unemployment, marking the
Samuel Ramirez Jr., added to FBI’s Ten Most Wanted, was captured in Mexico just 73 minutes after lis
A US federal judge dismissed subpoenas targeting Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell, saying prosecu
