Due to his severely deteriorating health, legendary Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan was unable to attend and inaugurate the 25th Kolkata International Film Festival. At the inaugural function Kolkata Chief minister Mamta Banerjee said, “Amitabhji comes here every time. But he could not turn up. Since last night he is unwell. So doctors have restricted his movements. He is suffering a lot since last night.” Banerjee also confirmed that she got a message from the actor about his ailment. “He contacted me, Jaya ji (Jaya Bachchan) also. .. We pray for his long life and good health. Today though he could not come, I believe Amitji’s mind is with this festival. We cannot think of this film festival without him,” she added further.
In Bachchan’s absence, Shah Rukh Khan commenced the ceremony.
In addition, Bachchan has been in poor health for a very long time and was recently admitted to a hospital due to severe liver condition.
