Big B encouraged me to write & act

This photograph was taken in 2003 when Mr Amitabh Bachchan came to New York for the launch of Khalid Mohammed's book, To Be or Not to Be Amitabh Bachchan. The title was being launched in honor of Mr Bachchan's 60th birthday.
This photograph was taken in 2003 when Mr Amitabh Bachchan came to New York for the launch of Khalid Mohammed’s book, To Be or Not to Be Amitabh Bachchan. The title was being launched in honor of Mr Bachchan’s 60th birthday.

New York born Actor Prashant Gupta on how a letter from Amitabh Bachchan convinced him to take the plunge.

At the time, I was seeing a girl named Mansi, who is now my wife. Her dad worked at Air India at the time, and secured passes, so I tagged along. I was 18 and studying acting. I would freelance as a model and act in community theatre.

My father insisted I pursue a business degree in case I needed a backup plan.

I remember we were sitting in the second row at the event. When Mr Bachchan walked in, my jaw dropped. I was a huge fan like everyone else growing up in that generation. Muqaddar Ka Sikandar, Trishul and Deewaar were my favorite films.

My girlfriend was embarrassed by my behavior. When I asked to stand in the queue separately to get an autograph so I could get some time alone with him, she was more than willing.

When I got my turn, I touched Mr Bachchan’s feet and asked for his blessing. I told him that I was studying acting and enjoyed writing poetry. I had begun writing poetry in Hindi and Urdu when I was younger. His father, Harivansh Rai Bachchan, was a celebrated poet and I admired his work. Mr Bachchan encouraged me to pursue the art.

Later that year, I self-published a book of 100 poems called Aks. I sent the manuscript to Mr Bachchan. I just wanted him to have it. I was surprised when he replied through a letter appreciating my work.
I took it as a sign. I decided that instead of going to LA, I would head to Mumbai to pursue my dream of becoming an actor.

Another dream I have is to invite Mr Bachchan to the launch of my next book. But I will only do it when I have established myself as an actor. -Courtesy Sunday Mumbai Mirror