‘If I Don’t Work Now, When Will I?’

Amitabh Bachchan’s recent disclosure that he had shot for Kaun Banega Crorepati for 24 hours at a stretch has made his fans anxious, but the indefatigable star simply says “What to do? Such are the schedules for the show. You have to do what you have to do.”

“Besides, if I don’t work now, when will I?” he adds, philosophically. Asked whether such long hours are not a health hazard at this age, he shoots back, “What do you mean by ‘this age’? I don’t know why I’ve to be reminded of my age all the time. I am fortunate to be still working. In our country, people are pushed into retirement past 60. Please don’t do that. You are as relevant as your activities. A job, your work, gives an identity, a sense of self. Take that away and a person is nothing.”

Reliving his 26-year-long association with Kaun Banega Crorepati, the Big B gets nostalgic. “Every day, every season, is a new experience. Each day there’s someone from a fresh background. Plus, there’s the opportunity to interact with a live audience. I keep meeting all kinds of fans and well-wishers. There have been some very emotional interactions with such people.”

The iconic actor is thankful for his fan following. “There are so many memories of interactions with fans. During the time I was ill in hospital, the outpouring of affection was unforgettable. That’s an experience I’ll never forget. I’m just thankful to God for giving me the opportunity to reach out to the younger generation through Kaun Banega Crorepati. I consider myself very fortunate.”

He signs off with signature humility “I’m sure any anchor would have succeeded, given the format and technical polish.”