Posted on: August 21, 2008 - 3:46 pm
London, UK August 21, 2008 6:50 pm
Got in early this morning. Bad flight. No sleep on it. Not because of airline. American Airlines was just fine…
But.. for some reason, no sleep.
Got into the Hotel and after pulling out some clothes and a shower, were back in front of a large media for a Press Conference and the one on ones and the meet and greets. All went without incident. Except, none of us knew what we were saying and indeed where we were !!
Totally spaced out with jet lag and lack of sleep.
But I must say the enthusiasm of the press and the red carpet from the promoters and the Hotel was astonishing. I have never in my entire history of Concerts been received by the promoters at the Hotel of venue with a red carpet welcome. Thank you John Singh ! We must be doing something right to deserve this.
Before I crash into oblivion and hopefully some slumber I have great pleasure in placing before you another media apparition.
Read the article posted above ? Shama Bhagat writes in Asian Age of Mumbai, Thursday August 21, 2008 !!!
Well, Jaya is with me as I receive this fax in my room and is, livid !!
She has not met this Ajay Phansekar, never talked of any project, never signed it as mentioned and has no idea of the title of the film or its credentials.
The article mentions Industry sources commenting on her unavailability due to the tour and made quotes on her behalf as ‘citing date problems as the reason’.
When Jaya is completely unaware of the project and those involved with it, who pray is this self appointed Industry source who professes to confirm the words spoken by her !
The article uses harsh words. ‘Having left in the lurch at the last moment, the makers were in a fix.’ And taking Shabana Azmi for the ‘role Jaya had been signed for’.
Ok. Here’s the challenge. Show us the signed contract Mr Film Maker that Jaya has been signed for. And name the source, m/s Shama Bhagat and Asian Age, that claims to have quoted Jaya !!
Readers and fellow bloggers ! My previous blog regarding the media is not written without sufficient consideration. Many feel these incidents are insignificant for my reckoning and I should ignore them. You may be right and you may be completely wrong.
It is not the big issues in life that matter, it is the smaller ones. When the media paints a malicious lie to the public you do not measure the intensity or the color of the lie. A lie is a lie and those that propagate it must take responsibility of it or face consequences.
One can maintain the age old adage of ’silence being golden’. I am afraid I am not interested in the gold. I am interested in reconfirming the fact, how one community or fraternity goes about its business without fault, but is in fault. Without any blemish, but is indeed full of it. And refuses to acknowledge it. It took me and the server BigAdda, a very extended period of time and some very concerted meetings and phone calls to get Mid Day to extend an apology for the malicious and erroneous reportage on the matter of me being paid to write my blog. And that too, not in the way, the server wanted. It was, after great deliberation and legal exchange, an apology of an apology.
The deliberations are unfair. An accusation made first, has lasting effect, because it is projected and profiled in a manner that catches the mind and attention of the reader with somewhat lasting effect. Any correction or denial by media thereafter, is either delayed in order to minimize the memory factor, or put across in such insignificant manner, that it would require a microscope to even notice its presence in print.
Result. There are still many readers that come on my blog who insist and strongly believe I get paid to write. I can go blue in the face in denying this, but no, first impressions are the last and final impressions.
Let me analyze the article in question, above. Most readers go by headlines. No one has sufficient time to read every bit of print. So write an attractive headline. SHABANA REPLACES JAYA is attractive. The word ‘replace’ in the life of a professional becomes negative and deflating for one and attractive and complimentary to the other. So, without the confirmation of facts and hiding behind the oft- protective- legally- safe- from- defamation expression, ’sources’ ( which could be anyone or no one, or one that media manufactures and I will give proof of this too ) the article and m/s Shama Bhagat have succeeded in destroying Jaya’s profile and image as a professional, by putting out, that she has been ‘replaced’.
Then.. to support the statement, incidents, quotes are put in. Photographs are chosen, where the facial expressions of the subjects, comply and match with the text of the column and off it goes to print.
Shama Bhagat has earned her remuneration for the column, space in the Asian Age has been filled, job done and over. Who cares for consequences.
And all this.. bogus and manufactured rubbish !!
FINAL IMPRESSION !! A demeaning of the image of one artist. The aggrandizement of the image of the other. One artist coming out looking like a villain because she ‘refused’ and left maker ‘in the lurch’ by not honoring her ’signed contract’. The other coming out looking like an angel and victorious because she stepped in to ‘take on the role’ instead.
And all coming out of something that was a a load of rubbish !! Long live the media !!
‘Katrina replaces Aishwarya’, screamed a headline some days back, for a diamond company endorsement matter. One demeaned, the other aggrandized. The company may go hoarse clarifying that it is not a replacement. Aishwarya may correct the issue with statements galore, that after expiry of her contract the company did not comply with her fresh terms and conditions, but no, what remains, is the ticklish factor of replacement.
And wait and see what happens to my remarks after I post this issue. A whole new aspect of rivalry shall be built up, because I chose to bring this matter up and show the media in poor light !!
Many readers have responded to the media debate and the queries put up. Many have given their impressions. Most have been constructive and in agreement with observations. Some say I have become too sensitive to them in my old age. Some disagree.
This is good and acceptable to me. If I open a public forum I cannot be expected to receive only the good. I have always welcomed the bad as well. Many have stated that had I not clarified they would have continued to be fans but would have looked at me with doubt. Many express that this blog is not meant to be an avenue for media trial and rectification. Well…if this blog carries my name and credentials, surely I should be the one that will decide what goes on it or off it. Many accuse me of only using this medium to get back at the media. Yes, I do use it to get back at the media. But that is not the only use. Read up from DAY 1. I talk of my routines and daily travel. I talk of matters personal, of matters emotional and private. I have talked of issues general and universal and moral. Of concerns that affect me or could affect me. Of bad days and good days. I have responded to random readers and shall continue to do that hopefully in the not too distant future on a more personal level, by commenting below their comment; server permitting.
I have played fairly and openly. And shall continue to do so in the future too.
My love - something that is irreplaceable and constant, contracted, signed and just; never one that shall leave you in the lurch - so help me God !!
Amitabh Bachchan
Click here to enlarge the above image
August 22nd, 2008 at 2:05 am
Amitji,
Wow great written piece, I was one of the few whom said that these journalists will continue to hog you regardless how big or small the matter, they have continued in this manner continuously…I did not realise how this deeper these matters affect you, if you feel you need to justify the trust to your fans and mediawale, We are behind you always…. just do not these matters find you in ill health ever…..people will continue to try to bring others down through jealousy, greed, dislike…everyone knows you cant please all the people all of the time, the fact is that you can please some of the people some of the time.
We are all hoping for a sell out show at the 02 centre on Sunday, good luck with your good deed on saturday in leicester in regards to the opening of a diabetic centre with Keith Vaz..
All the best always
Kishore Bhatt (UK)
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ab Reply:
August 22nd, 2008 at 12:47 pm
thank you Kishore.. for your comments and good wishes for the O2 show..hope you enjoy it..
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:06 am
Hi Amit Uncle,
Dont make your blood pressure go so high for people are just idiots. Media purely write stuff in their papers so they get readers, more people buy their magazines or papers. Please dont make yourself angry over such naiveness. I am very happy that you write on this blog as it gives you the freedom of speech that you dont have whilst giving interviews as someone would take what u have said to heart, but this is your blog and you can write whatever you wish.
Also please tell Jaya auntie not to take such stupid comments to heart, she is a wonderful actress as is Shabana Azmiji, both have donw some excellent work in their field. I wouldnt like you to be upset whilst your in London, as its nearly time that I shall see you at the O2.
Well Good Night for now,
Sweet Dreams (dont work to hard)
Ps if you get a chance to have a coffee let me know.
Love
Sweta xxxx
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ab Reply:
August 22nd, 2008 at 1:02 pm
No BP high at all ! Just need to rectify a wrong. And thank you for your sympathetic stance. I shall try not to work hard and I do not drink coffee !
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:06 am
Mr Bachchan you are doing everything right.General public like us always believes that there must be some truth in news….not knowing media can be completely wrong .Not knowing the news can be a big lie.Thanks for bringing light to such issues.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:12 am
hello sir,
I have read through most of the peoples comment on blog 120 and 120 (i) many people are in support of you and there are big discussion also other than few so dont bother about them.
Regarding this article i think when i read it without knowing the fact it gives me an impression about how can jayaji do that she seems to be so disciplined,a nd an woman with principles. Now as we know the fact so can really know how the media makes story a good fact for people like us who are not very much aware what goes on , in this media world it gives a open picture that stars always are not wrong as media always tries to potray them.
I think the biggest problem is that your blog is read by very few number of people as compared to the people who read newspapers so you should do something to clarify and put your statements in the paper itself or any other medium which reaches to a bigger audience also.
Please tell jayaji not to get upset we are with her and will always love her and please tell her to do some more flims too
have a grt show and keep writing
renu
take care
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:13 am
Hello
I am coming to the show in london but will not be able to see you in leicester for the opening of the Diabetes Centre but my sister will be
Ps If possible could you please announce at the show that it is my father and mothers 36th wedding anniversary
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:15 am
Fair enough! Everybody deserves to know the other side of the story, and if i read something about you Sir, I know now where to look for your version of it.
But on the brighter side, they thought Jayaji is better than Shabanaji. They went to her first. Whenever I read such statements I always wonder why the actor who replaces the original one would ever accept considerng they were the 2nd choice?
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:17 am
Haha, I enjoyed your point about choosing photos that match the story. Gossip magazines and tabloids always do that! If the front page story is a break-up, they choose photos of the two people in question looking angry or upset. If they suspect someone of being pregnant, they pick a random photo where the woman’s stomach is showing slightly under her shirt (who knows, it might just be gas!) and she is looking a bit mysterious. Romance stories have random photos of the stars smiling.
Nothing to do with the story, fabricated or not. Just random photos meant to reinforce the words and make the reader imagine that this is how the star is feeling and acting. Nobody really thinks about the photos!
-Melanie
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:18 am
Hit them hard, Hit them hard, Hit them hard, Hit them hard, Hit them hard, Hit them hard, Hit them hard, Hit them hard, Hit them hard, Hit them hard, Hit them hard, Hit them hard, Hit them hard, Hit them hard, Hit them hard, Hit them hard, Hit them hard,
THEY DESERVE IT….
Sanjeet
Fiji Islands
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:20 am
“My love - something that is irreplaceable and constant, contracted, signed and just; never one that shall leave you in the lurch ”
Only God can claim that!
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:20 am
Dear Amitji…don’t worry about media coz they just want some issue to write… i know from film industry media is definitely creating their own issue and adding some extra stuff in it…we call it “mithu marchu” some extra masala for some extra tasty…we are not believing in media…we are believing in you and a person who talk in front of media(TV) not newspaper…
We still love you and your entire family….I love Jayaji,Abhishek,Aishwarya and Shweta…
love and regards,
Hetal.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:25 am
OH my God. This is an eyeopener. We, the fans are with you in your war against “Negative Journalism”. If you don’t speak up for yourself who will.
I think there are few journalist out there whose sole aim is to pull the successful celebrities down. You are right. It does create a negative image.
Aren’t you grateful that today you have this media where you can voice opinion and thousands and thousands of people are reading it and agreeing with you
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK !!!!!!
Take good rest.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:26 am
dear amit sir,
have recently come across your blogs…i like how you show yourself in your blogs and do whatever it takes to speak the truth and enlighten us with your knowledge (whatever the subject may be) as well as ur eloquent and loyal opinions…i hope you keep it up…
P.S. as some of us Americans may put it…’screw the media’…they have nothing better to do hence they go and CREATE problems for other…worry not sir…there are smart ppl. out here in the world who know that 97% of what’s written as comparison between actors/clebrities is untrue…thats why its blogs like yours that inform us about whats actually the truth…one on one!
a fan writing on the day of her last final @ University(UCD)
-Nimrah
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:28 am
Amit Uncle, Aap stars ki life kitni mushkil hai naa? Office main ek din koi kuch bol deta hai to mann dukhi ho jaata hai, aap logon ko to yeh din-raat, sote-jaagte jhelna padta hai.
Upar se har samay approachable, sundar aur well-mannered rehna padta hai…galati ka kahin thoda sa bhi scope nahin..Baap re baap!
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:30 am
I like the new comment feature you have on your blog. It would be really cool if you get a chat feature up too, this way if you ever have free time and you are on, we can chat with you live as well. Is that something your tech people are working on? Could you also provide us with a preview of what you have planned for this site for the future?
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:30 am
Even I read that article which mentioned that Katrina replaces Ash….But since I no loonger trust the media or their so called sources, I waited to hear from Ash herself and after a few days Abhishek clarified that the said diamond company did not meet her new terms and conditons after expiration of old, they mutually agreed to part ways…..But the first impression made me feel that Katrina is now more famous and glamourous than Ash and Ash’s market value is going down while katrina’s going up……
Indian entertainment media has reach so low that no one and I say NO ONE can bring them up with regards to morals, values or character. But thankfully aam janta is busy with daily struggle and does not pay much attention to who has got the DIAMONDS….they read and forget it……but for Ash or Katrina….it is a battle of clarifications and clarifications and more clarifications till media finds another juicy one to report……
So you see….a cycle of reporting and then seeking clarification……rather than clarifying first and then reporting…..Indian entertainment media was BORN BACKWARDS…their minds have regressed….their tone has become aggressive….their body language is combative but their soul is dead…..But I would have to say sarcastically….LONG LIVE INDIAN ENTERTAINMENT MEDIA!!!
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:31 am
Dear Amitji,
Thankyou for writing this blog. I am so proud of you to have done this blog site. I am a very ordinary but proud mother of a 3 yr old…your words give me the strength and courage to fight for myself and my little one in the betterment of our lives. Do continue the hard work. I am sure its not easy to sit down and write for all ur fans after a hard days work. Take care of yourself.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:34 am
Dear Amitjee,
Sad that you could not sleep well on board.Hope you get some sleep tonight.
Well,I agree with the way you respond to the media through your blog.For some people,it’s hard to digest the fact that you have been quiet for so many years and now you have started to raise your voice in such matters.But the utility called “blogging” did not exist in the early years of your career.We,the admirers,get to know the story from both sides.And it’s great to hear it from you than anyone else.
India is at the brink of winning another medal..don’t know which one.So it has been a great Olympic for India this time.Hope to do better than this in 2012.
Wishing you a peaceful night of lots of sleep.
Love Always
Prachi
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:36 am
Dear Sir,
Congratulations! And well done so far. I cannot tell you how much happy and satisfied I be when you give a very befitting reply to such baseless and demeaning news pieces. I had problems in those days when you practiced the philosophy “Silence is Goldâ€. It might be that then you were not having the right means to reply and now you have by means of this blog. I would like to bring to your attention one more such incident in very recent past. The whole team of ‘Unforgettable’ was to leave the country for the tour. One of the electronic channels reported that Preity and Aishwarya had a spat. The channel even inserted imaginative words into their mouths which were certainly not in good humor and very tasteless. I wonder why you chose to remain silent or may be your office didn’t bring this to your attention.
Good Luck for the remaining tour.
My best regards as always.
Sudesh
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:37 am
Love the signing of bit!
Sorry again still work to do no time to reply properly as yet at this moment…
My sympathy to Mrs Bachchan. How angry and sad she must be feeling! Nasty journalist/sm - mouth like a vampire and sting like a scorpion’s tail!!!!
Really am so sorry, just have no time…..
My Love - unsigned, uncontracted, “BUT” also irreplaceable and just!!!
!
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rajesh sanmukhani Reply:
August 22nd, 2008 at 12:44 pm
hey this is nice new format of reply below the comment. lets see how it looks on the screen.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:38 am
Dear Amit uncle,
I totally agree with you that this blog is your blog and you have every right to say whatever you feel like saying!!!! The face as well as the values of this media have changed a lot in the last five six years!!!! Whether it is television or printed media they are showing and writing only those things which can capture people’s attention at the first sight!!! They know this will help them sell more!!!
But you are doing a great job by putting your thoughts and your prespective on the things which are very near to you and mean a lot to you. Thanks for sharing your life with us!!!
With lot of respect,
PJ
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:41 am
SHABAASH!!!! don worry for anything SIR and keep doing it!! coz your response creating a ripple effect. its gonna work for n its working…. you are the one who can KHAMOOSH these CHAPARGUNJUS…
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:42 am
sir ji,
ur stance is justified.
Mahesh Thakur
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:42 am
God arent u tired please go to sleep …some capacity to write this much after a jet lag….. do u really need to explain to the world these trivial matters media does it very frequently …sleep that is what u need
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:43 am
Dear Amitji,
I have been reading your blog since its inception and cherish reading it.Thanks to your blog,iam getting to know you as you are and not what the media wants you to be or its perception.Iam an educated fan of you,jayaji and your family,even readres like us get carried away with wrong publicity.Iam glad you can connect with us and clarify what actually happened.
Your family values,integrity,the way you and jayaji have raised your children,your transparency with your fans and the people you love is amazing.You have the ability to connect and touch so many peoples lives,you are a gift from god.You are truly a blessed soul.
I understand your pain,emotions and trying to let all your fans understand exactly what goes on in your life.I respect you and have a lot of admiration for the way you have conducted your life.You have seen death at such close quarters and emerged victorious,is anything else going to be worse than that?Even if it did, all your fans stand by you and pray for you and you will raise like the Phoenix.
Iam writing to you to share the pain and anger you go through whenever the media prints a fabricated story about you or your family.
Good luck with your London leg of your tour.
With lots of Love and Good wishes
Padmaja
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:44 am
Dear Amitabh Uncle,
It is so good to get to hear the actual truth straight from you. It is very unfortunate that Jaya Aunti is being brought into this for no reason. Is there any sort of legal action you can take against the media when they publish these false reports? The media really needs to get a life. Why don’t you or Jaya Aunti try to contact Mr. Phansekar or someone at K Sera Sera?
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:44 am
If the media can hit at you why can’t you hit ‘em back? Go for it!
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:44 am
Dear Mr. Bachchan,
Hope you liked today’s painting. My dream has come true today, I was waiting for this moment since long time. Please have a look on my graphical expressions on Sarkar Raj as well. I’d love to hear your views on this.
Kind regards,
Amit, London
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:47 am
Dear Mr Bachchan
I wasn’t going to comment tonight.
But simply cannot resist saying that this really is your best argued expose of the media yet.
Written with demonic brilliance, despite your utter exhaustion. Flawlessly reasoned and so powerfully expressed.
Just the opening phrase “another media apparition” had me completely hooked.
I’m almost starting to feel sorry for these journalists - it must be SO depressing to see that your writing is WAY better than theirs.
Truly Mr Bachchan, you ARE irreplaceable.
With love from Daisy.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:48 am
I think you are right because we are not in your shoe,. So we feltl you should ignore the media. We said this (ignore the media) because we also feel your pain and anguish. This media will haunt you and kill you (mean kill your emotions). Do you realize that they want to be noticed by YOU? In your post the negative replies always got noticed by you, so this is the only way they think you will remember them (Even if it is for a moment, they feel noticed)
Similarly,media wants to be in your book, bad or good does not matter. It is sadistic way of being noticed. They love to tease you and your family –Reason. Who knows?
Pleaaaaaaaaaaaaaaase do not misunderstand our intention when we agree to disagree with you. All we pray is, that you be happy and have peace of mind. If you feel and believe in retaliating, go ahead do it. We are all behind you. People who are suspicious will always doubt, no amount of justification will help them to erase their doubt.( about getting paid for the blog)
I think media wants to be brown nosed by you .They perhaps think, they are the lords who can destroy or restore your image .
Anyway, have a great time .
Take care .
sumi
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:51 am
Totally agree with everything you feel and say. Sue the pants off them!!!
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wow Reply:
August 22nd, 2008 at 1:04 pm
ok wow
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:52 am
Hi Amit Uncle,
I am true appalled at the lies and deception that the media publishes…perhaps the best thing to do is call them on it…Sue them all for libel, emotional distress, and above all SLANDER! Not just the media outlet, but the reporter, editor, publisher, all of them involved. You know the stories are false. Make them an example. Fight them with the very same media they attack you with. Make them PERSONALLY responsible as well. And the proceeds that come from these cases should go to a charity. I say donate the money, if any, because the next story would be that you needed the money. Do not accept just a written apology, because that is forgotten just as fast as it’s written. I am not very familiar with the Indian Penal Code, but I’m sure they must have some laws pertaining to this harassment. Hum tumhare saath hoon!!! (um, I did say that right
Not very good in Hindi, but thought I’d take a shot)
Much Love Amit Uncle
PB
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:52 am
dear Amitji,
I completely agree with you on this matter- you should or Jayaji should take this matter to the legal level so media will refrain from planning to twist the matter in future. Media has responsibility to be fair in putting the correct news in the press. If they twist the matter or write a totally wrong news, they should be penalized. I agree that you write on your blog about this matter, so media/ fans are aware of the truth. Also it is true that it is easy to spread “bad” or “false” news than “truth”. Please take this matter to the best possible legal action so media will try to refrain from “bad publicity”in future.
Ashesh
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:54 am
Mr B…i’ve had first had account of how the media works….when you were shooting in some city in india for ’shoebite’ and had to come to mumbai for a function, this journalist reported you were sick on a forum…..after I had told him that you were not and that you were in mumbai for a function he still went ahead and wrote an article in Glamsham that you were sick and rushed back to Mumbai….
How does one explain this??!!! The news is not about facts anymore, it’s about what the reporter feels will make better copy, it’s not about the truth, it’s about making up a story to ‘entertain’ the reader….it’s not about honesty and integrity, to hell with that…the Indian media has totally lost it!!! I have always wondered who these “Industry sources” perhaps Ms Shama Bhagat can enlighten us on this…..
It’s a crazy world we live in!
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:55 am
I am looking forward to “commenting below the comment “. In online education we use this process to get back to students . Great , Looking forward to it . That will not make us feel ignored,hahah .
:0
Have a great one .
Take care .
sumi
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:56 am
Your fustration with such made up stories is understandable. However, despite mentioning these articles in your blog such stories will continue. Unfortunately, the only way to fight back is to hit these publications in their pocket book. That in itself is such a long and tedious process (via a lawsuit).
It is not just you or your family. There is so much garbage (false stories) printed about every popular Hollywood actor/actress. With the advent of the internet doctored obscene photos are posted to ruin someone’s reputation. However, the consequences faced by the publications for their lies are very minor (cost of doing business). I guess in today’s society this is the price of fame.
How many publications can one go after? What about the emotional toll such stories take on a person/family? Perhaps, it is just better to have a thick skin and pick and choose your battle’s. Sadly, I do not have a solution for you. From time to time the media will pick on you and your family. This is how they make money. I wish I could change that - but it is what it is. My concern is the emotional toll such false stories will take on you. This storm will come and go - you just have to learn to stay calm.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 2:56 am
Hello Amitji,
I totally agree with you, what you are doing is right, these people need to realize the consequences of telling lies. Trust is very important, once broken cannot be repaired and so now wonder how many people would believe stories by Shama Bhagat, even if they are true.
What I don’t understand is how can people say lies like that and be able to sleep in the night, doesn’t their conscience tell them its wrong?
Anyways, you’ve been great and you’ve been doing a great job, keep up the good work,
Sameer
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:00 am
Dearest Amitabh Uncle,
Thank you for today’s post. I took my first acting class today — just the apprehension of my first 1 minute assignment was a bit unnerving. It’s on Tuesday. But I thought of you and was inspired. I think I will try to say the lines from Amar Akhbar Anthony in which you say funny long words in English. Yes, that requires practice and will show up nicely I think. Thanks for helping me with my homework ;-). We have to wear all black clothes as a uniform in the class. I will keep looking to you for inspiration; please write more on the act of acting in upcoming blogs. I have been waiting since day one to hear more on this topic.
Take care and rest well. Enjoy the rest of the tour.
Love,
Smita
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:02 am
Good evening Mr Bachchan,
First, I thank God that all of you have safely arrived in London.
Second, your latest post is very very explicit. I’m very happy that you’ve explained yourself very clearly. Some bloggers do not get where you are coming from, they think you sit by your computer and just type any thing that comes to your mind without being thoughtful.
I am with you, and hundred percent share your concern about the media. As the sayings goes ‘first impression lasts longer’; it is your perogative to respond or not to respond. It is you and your family whose reputation is being damaged not we the fans or bloggers!
Once again wishing Team Unforgettable Tour another mega successful show.
Daniel S
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:03 am
Amitji,
There are no clear cut answers to the questions asked. Journalism as a profession itself skirts between morality and immorality. The path journalists take to achieve their goal is their choice. If an investigative journalist assorts to unethical means to expose a major scandal; is that wrong or is it justified? thats a call the journalist and the readers have to take.And worse, if your journalism itself survives on gossip, scandal and private lives of others (most film magazines) then there is no line to cross and no morality, only a business to build. The people who read it this stuff, some artists who need to be in the news and journalists who want to earn their living: all are to blame. And who is not biased? It is an inevitable side effect for someone as famous as you! The more famous you are the more people want to see you fail. Even in sports the crowd always roots for the under dog. People get some perverse pleasure in seeing somebody fail. It makes that person that much more human I guess!
But it is a dangerous thing when you start getting defensive towards your critiques. As an artist in a profession wherein the audience is an integral part of your creative cycle; critique should be welcome: good, bad, ugly and even biased. Any other news about your personal life whether true or false need not be acknowledged. You don’t owe anybody any explanation(not even you fans!) and least of all ‘these’ journalists.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:05 am
Well spoken Sir!I reside in US and we have dish network so we do not miss on Indian news and tv serials,reality shows etc.along with American news etc.It is really pathetic that the Indian Media is definately biased to 180 degrees,whether it is covering sports,entertainment or whatever news under the sun,the most melodramatic and ridiculus things shown are when a person does or says a word,action/statement it is replayed more than 20 times at one moment and shown more than 20 times within 12 hrs,I guess the media thinks that general people watching are morons and we dont understand things shown one time,hence the repitition-I guess we need to start an award show on your blog regarding the most biased media award- the most bakwas and biased news channel award goes to STAR NEWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!TALIAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!
I am a big fan of yours since I was in Kindergarten and now I have my kids that are past that age,u r truely a superstar in every sense of the word- amazing writing skills.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:06 am
I can’t keep saying this: You have such a great sense of humor! Also I have a question
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE I BEG OF YOU ANSWER THIS QUESTION ON YOUR BLOG… PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE…
What do you think of Kajol? Please detail the answer. Do you think she is a good actress? Human being? Personality? Sorry… just an obsessed fan :p
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:07 am
Respected Sir,
Instead of commenting on your recent blog, I have open a dictionary to find the meanings of some very rare words that you use in your highly polished english.
Please dont mind it. I request, If you read it please SMILE.
thanks and with lots of love
Bak
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:09 am
“The Out of Control Media in Indiaâ€
Why is the Indian Media so out of control? Why respected celebrities in India are made easy targets by these out-for-blood journalists of the Indian Media? Why do top stories that surface end up dead days later? Why do Indian journalists get published without crucial evidence to back their stories? What ever happened to honesty, the true form of journalism? Does honesty not sell newspapers in India? Why do Indian journalists cipher and transmit lies at their disposal? Why? Why? Why?
The answer is simple. People prefer to read about Brittney Spears latest hairstyle rather than what’s happening in IRAQ. Trash sells. Sex sells. And Scandals sell. We are entertained by it. A boy who fell down a hole gets the Indian Media’s attention and the coverage goes on for days. A boy elsewhere gets run over by a truck has no entertainment value the media will not cover the story. It’s all about entertainment value. Who is responsible for this? We are. Below is a perfect example of the Indian Media vs. the public’s reaction.
A year ago, Actor Richard Gere of Hollywood goes to India to talk about AIDS awareness and at one of the venues he kissed actress Silpa Shetty on the cheek. A simple gesture of kindness, and the actor did not kiss her in a demeaning manner (if a kiss can be called demeaning) and the media aired the event for hours and days. The public went crazy. Richard Gere had to leave the country and if he ever returned to India, he shall be arrested. He shall be arrested for a simple kiss on the cheek, for taking his time out to promote AIDS awareness in a country that has superseded Africa in the AIDS epidemic. This man has been coming to India time and again to promote AIDS awareness and this is how the country is going to repay him; by arresting him. Why did the media make this event frenzy? Two influential actors with compassion bonding on stage is taboo. What if they were on-screen? Would the public have acted any different? Of course! There was lip-locking in “DHOOM 2†but people seemed to have enjoyed that. I believe that the media provoked the general public with the Shilpa-Gere incident, because it sold newspapers. It had an entertainment value for them.
In the end, it all comes down to entertainment value. As long as it exists, it’s the devil’s playground and everyone is game. No exceptions.
-Rajesh K. Sharma
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:14 am
Namaste Amitji (Big B),
wanted to address Bachchan
as we used to address you with friends and others ;)…. just a request, whenever you are in europe or around POLAND, try to come to POLAND and visit this country, as here there are so many fans of yours … you want believe… here people are used to see kabhi khushi kabhi gum so many times….the first movie people has seen is this from bollywood… and if any polish people meet they first ask about this movie….they are really fan of yours and whole bollywood….
love
kunal chokshi
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:17 am
Dear Mr Bachchan,
I absoulety agree and with you on taking on the media.
Bravo!!!!!!!
Welcome to London and see you on Sunday.
Manda x
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:18 am
Dear Mr Bachchan and family and cast and crew
Welcome to London!!!
Only three days to go yippee!!!!!!!! cant wait!!!!!!!!
Love to you all
Ekta xxxx
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:19 am
Sue these newspapers for falsifying information. Donate the winnings to a charity .. that will teach these journalists the true meaning of journalism ..
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:24 am
Dear Amitji,
The war between Media and Celebrities has gone on forever. This is the price you have to pay for achieving celebrity status. There will never be an end to it.
IT happens all over the world and there is no way to force someone from writing rubbish about celebrities like yourself and Jayaji.
This is not the first time this has happened and it wont be the last, so please keep your cool and enjoy with your friends, family and fans.
If you keep replying to each and every journalist who writes rubbish about you, then you are just making them more famous.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:27 am
Amitji,
I am totally with you on this one! It has made me think twice about what’s written in the media not only about you & your family but also other stars! I will never believe anything they write! It also gives the journalism profession a bad name! The general public is always genuinely interested in what their favourite bollywood stars are up, that is why they buy these papers, we deserve to get accurate information, that is what we pay for!
This article in question they have put “According to Industry sources Jaya has cited date problems” by putting “According to Industry sources” they have protected themselves, the industry is so large it could have been a junior artist, make up person, infact absolutely anyone who mentioned this, but in truth the newspaper themselves have made this up! Thank God for this Blog that is all I can say!
NOW THAT YOU ARE IN LONDON I FEEL ABSOLUTELY DEPRESSED, YOU ARE ONLY TWO HUNDRED MILES AWAY FROM ME & I CAN’T SEE YOU OR MEET YOU! HOW WILL I GET THROUGH THE NEXT FEW DAYS_PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE GIVE ME A MENTION ON YOUR BLOG!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Lots of love (as always)
Your No.1 fan from UK
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:27 am
Dear Amit Uncle,
I just read another article with the same accusations against Jaya Aunti regarding this film. I think all the journalists are sharing one brain….too bad that one brain doesn’t work.
http://movies.indiatimes.com/articleshow/3385446.cms
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:30 am
My dear Mr. Bachchan,
Please, do calm down! I perfectly understand where you are coming from! I identify with your hurt and your rage! But like they say, what is yours can never be taken away from you, and what is not yours to own, you’ll never be able to hold on to it! I would like you to apply this principle to your fans, who, after your family, are of paramount importance to you isn’t? So no matter what the stories, jo aapke hai woh apke hi rehenge! Aur jo nahi hai, woh jhad jaenge!
But yes, I do see your point of contention…some times it becomes essential to put records straight! My only concern is that all this may affect your health and Jaya’s too! So please, think about it….. when we find it difficult to sleep for no apparant reason, it’s the alarm bell ringing, and we need to find out why! As for your need to question the actions of these people, and clarify your position, you have the firm support of all your fans, irrespective of their fears of the consequences it could prove to have for your well being ! Always with you….God Bless!!
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:31 am
I believe you are reacting a bit harshly. The role of media unfortunately has been turned into a speculative horseplay and one-up man ship.
As a celebrity who has been in the limelight for almost 40 years you should be above this. Even the slightest act of defense gives the whole article the credibility it does not deserve.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:32 am
“If I open a public forum I cannot be expected to receive only the good. I have always welcomed the bad as well.”
Implies - people who don’t agree with you are bad or that their views are bad?
Random readers? Just readers would have sufficed. Random readers sounds quite demeaning.
The more I read your write-ups, the more I realize that you really can’t take criticism and are hell bent on criticising whoever crosses your way - that Gandhi guy, even created a big hoopla about the innocuous comment from the Bharti female..Common, why are you cynical all the tme?
I do appreciate the clarifications on issues but day in and day out?
Hope you do get a good nights sleep and wake up in a good mood.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:33 am
On Tuesday, in my acting class I will perform, more or less (whatever I can fit into about a minute), the famous English lines from the song “My Name is Anthony Gonzalvez” in the movie Amar Akbar Anthony, performed by you:
Wait, wait, wait!!!
You see the whole country of the system is juxtapositioned by the hemoglobin in the atmosphere because you are a sophisticated rhetorician intoxicated by the exuberance of your own verbosity!
My name is Anthony Gonzalvez. My name is Anthony Gonzalvez. Right…
You see such extenuating circumstances coerced me to preclude you from such extravagance.
You see the coefficient of the linear is juxtapositioned by the haemoglobin of the atmospheric pressure in the country.
Excuse me, please.
************************
Maybe I can get a rehearsal videotaped to post later for your entertainment on my blog site. I am so glad I finally thought of a topic to do for this “talent” show assignment. Thanks to Amitabh Uncle. Thanks so much for helping me out — your love is truly not one that leaves one in a lurch…. and I am inspired to do more than Eklavya :-).
Love,
Smita
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:39 am
Dearest uncle,
…continue doing what your are doing…you are the owner of this blog and you have all the rights…wrong is not acceptable…u are right….
keep up the good work…am always with you…
and now take some rest and dont bother much about all this…
“kuch to log kahenge…logo ka kaam hai kehna” ( specially when not much of the work is there for them)
you take care
as always best wishes n good health
awaiting
Shailey
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:39 am
Hello,
You HAVE TO fight every little lie, I totally agree with you, I tell my friends this too that when a lie or injustice happens, you have to do something Immediately, as soon as you find out that it happened. If you don’t take care of it than and there, you’ve already lost and damage is than worse.
Media is fast becoming a monster that needs to be dealt with and some entity needs to keep tabs on entire Media industry. As of today, they have way too much UNACCOUNTED power.
-Sd
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:47 am
sat shri akal amit ji
read ur views .can just imagine the type of pressure media ..irresponsible media puts on celebrities n sheer frustration on watching damage being done to images n reputations .n its great tht u hv taken up ths issue in ur blog …if u hv the means to reach people n air ur views why not?sm kind of strict media laws shd be enacted …tht might help curtailing sm damage that these vultures …these pests do .
take care n lots of love
reet
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:49 am
Dear Mr. Bachchan
You are pretty vocal even with the jet lag, and being tired!!!. Jokes apart, I think we all feel your pain and disappointment, and understand why you are upset (to put it nicely) with the media. What is the solution? I guess as others have stated, it is yellow journalism for you and it is here to stay, just as all the selfish politicians (who despite taking oath on holy books to uphold the constitution, do just the opposite, as far I know journalists do not take such oaths), actors who play games to pull others down, and businessmen who bribe people to get things done. As you suggested in one of your blogs, hire people to fight it in a legal way like Tom Cruise who sued one of the journalists who writes gossip. Do not stoop down to their level, I know it is easy for outsiders to give suggestions because we are not in your shoes, but I personally feel, for what ever it is worth, legal way is the only way, and hiring public relations personnel. That will make editors think twice before they print something. Just as your love for your fans is constant, our following for you is here to stay and constant. (My husband just peeped into my screen and thinks I am crazy). Wishing you plenty of rest and once again all the best for your upcoming concert. I hope we will continue to have power tomorrow to read your blog, as we are being lashed by wind and rain due to the tropical storm ‘Fay’.
Lakshmi Jag
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:52 am
Respected Amitji,
I fully agree with you for confronting the media, in fact it is not confronting the media but it is confronting the lies. We beleive media should be the face of the truth but in these days of speech liberalization, verbal democracy media has crossed the thin line between truth and what is shown as truth. I have been watching the news channels and see how the media gets on each issue however insignificant it be (bal ki khal nikalna). They tend to distort the truth and twist it, turn it and present it in the manner it wants and in which it gains most. As rightly said by you they are only interested in the “ticklish feelings” of the audience resulting in great advantage to it at the cost of others. I also support you in your media trial and rectification since there has to be some control on what the media says or writes. True you are a public figure and are bound to be in the media but I beleive everyone has a personal life which should left alone and not fiddled with. Anyway my support with you.
Yours,
Bharat Doshi
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August 22nd, 2008 at 3:58 am
I read the article about ‘replacing Jaya’ before I read your post. I knew the media twists issues to make them look good. But this takes the cake !!
Hope your rebuttel makes it to the national newspapers as they usually quote ie get the latest Bachchan news from your bolg anyway
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:00 am
Mr. Bachchan,
Sorry that you, Mrs. Jaya Bachchan, and the rest of your family keep being thrust into the media glare with totally fabricated nonsense articles designed to rain on your family’s parade or to show your family in a negative light. It’s become such par for the course with the unscrupulous media who cares for nothing, but printing sensational lies and rumors in order to get ratings or to try to take down celebrities they have it out for.
It certainly seems that the media are out to get you and your family especially in India. It’s a shame such nefarious tactics are used by the media who no longer stand for morals, facts, truth, decency, or anything enlightening. The media these days are a black hole of agendas, propaganda, mendacity, and opportunism at its best. Glad you set the record straight, but just please pick your battles because you can’t fight every lie or rumor. But good going Mr. Bachchan.
Best wishes!!
http://www.bachchans.net/forums/index.php?act=idx
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:06 am
LONG LIVE AMITABH BACHCHAN. SHUT UP, MEDIA ! YOU MEDIA GUYS ARE JUST NO MATCH TO THE VALUES THAT AMITABH BACHCHAN STANDS FOR.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:09 am
Dear Sir,
I read your blogg daily, even with my busy routine.. I feel you have every right to say what you want and talk about the issues in the press about you and your family, it just shows that you can’t trust what the media portrays.. more power to you!!!
Hope you enjoy your stay in London, which hotel are you staying in? just curious as you got the red carpet treatment!!!
Saima from Texas
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:10 am
Mr. B,
I sincerely believe that you should hire a team of lawyers whose job would be to put defamation cases on baseless journalism against your family. I am serious that is the only language they comprehend. Let them fight the cases and MAY BE AND HOPEFULLY they will try doing their job in the right spirit of true journalism.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:14 am
Mr. B,
Forgot to mention one more thing previously you used to sign the blog enteries, it used to add that special personal touch. I am assuming the server might be giving you problem, this is my humble request if time permits could you please go back to signing the blog enteries.
Regards,
Bhavana
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:21 am
i wonder y ppl get al thes news to print in…nywazz sm thins r juss nt meant to change in ths industry…isn’t it!!!
i second u Sir fr ur attitude towards it….
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:23 am
Dear Amitji,
First of all I would like to welcome you to the United Kingdom. I only wish that I could be there to see you but I am more than satisfied about being able to read about you on daily basis as well as on your thoughts.
Whoever said that you are being paid to write on yout blog, seriously need to reconsider what they have said. This blog is yours and yours only as far as the public should be concerned and why would someone pay you to write on your own blog is just unthinkable. I, myself am a moderator for blog and I also write a lot myself on various topics, including “Bollywood” (I do apologise for using that word as I believe that you don’t like it) and actors actresses. I read the article that you have posted on here and I as a person involved in journalism and media, as per my message on the blog yesterday, I cannot believe what has been written! This seems like a cheap publicity stunt at the cost of someone else and unfortunately it is tarnishing Jayaji’s name and image as you have correctly said because, the first thing that a reporter has to do is to get their facts right and it seems that this has not been done. I know how you feel Amitji and I would feel the same if I was in your position.
I have some friends who will be at Leicester when you and Keith Vaz are doing the opening ceremony for the diabetes charity. Actually one of them may be involved in the the actual organisation of it.
Amitji, if you don’t mind, could you please pass on a message to Abhishek? This is I am looking forward to see him, if not live in London or Germany, then at least in “Drona.” But honestly, I think that Karan Johar got the best out of him in “Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna.” Also one for Aishwarya and that is that I think she did an excellent job in “Jodha Akbar.”
Lastly, please pass on my regards to Jayaji and please tell her that after all tese years, she is still my favourite old time actress and I loved watching her in “Uphar.”
To you Amitji, take care and “Tussi Great Ho.”
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:29 am
m soo glad tht v r able to c n know the real U thru this Blog…otherwise trust me whateva is printed on tht white page is believed to the depth of it…y is it like tht?? i mean ther is soo much else to comment on in ths world,, here in USA i sometimes feel media needs to break out tht conservative nutshell…desperately needs a makeover in d way it functions,,,,ummm..i dunno…m no Genius to make ny comment here!!
nywaz…thanx 2 u fr sparing 2hrs on showin us th actual scenarios n facts!!
til now v wer livin in a world of fiction….sigh!!!
loads of luvv n regards,,,
shivani
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:30 am
Congratulatns sir on your stance! If anybody can break the spine of the media cartel it is you… There has been a systematic annhilation of all neutral reporting in the past 15yrs. Please consider us as supporters for your cause for as long as it doesnt become merely “family” protection,, hopefully u will encourage criticism+ criticality of yr interpretations. Please specify whether yr wife son bahu daughter or any other person is “protected” by you and why. One tends to see them as separate individuals who shld answer for themselves+ not everhiding behind you for protection… Only then will u be called fair or sincere.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:30 am
Dear Mr Bachan
I dont have words to express how much i love you. You have been my hero since i was 3 yrs old and you always will be. It is my dream to meet you and i really hope that one day i will. I have grown up watching your movies, and now whenever i see you on screen, i dont know how to expain it but i get really emotional. I really wish you were performing in Pakistan. I met Mrs Bachan in june at Harrod’s, London at their Pizzeria and chatted with her for a bit..she is a sweetheart. I remembering expressing my love for you to her =p..I really wish i could somehow catch your unforgettable performance.
May God bless you with a long, healthy life and many such tours.
All my love and best wishes,
Shazreh.
Lhr Pakistan.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:34 am
Dear Mr. Bachchan
This one was simply amazing!!! I think much needed. People in general are of the opinion that celebrities if openly express their views are either too desperate to seek attention or they do it because of their position and power. I think Sir, clarifying your end is very much essential for the media who cook up stories on the spur of the moment and come up with gossips that are completely uncalled for. A common man would raise his opinion if people were to wrongly judge or misinteprete him/her, and a celebrity afterall is also a human being who has all the right in the world to clarify their sides and let people clear their misunderstandings as millions of people look upto them as their ‘idol’.
Blogging has surely come as a boon as you are able to directly communicate to people and let them know your opinions and thoughts on so many issues and matters of importance and also when it comes to clarifying the media’s unjustified articles which was not possible earlier…. i wonder the amount of unnecessary gossip and false news that would have gone into the minds of so many fans over the years ….
I am very much looking forward to see the ‘unforgettable’ in london. My husband has already arranged for tickets but i am a little apprehensive about bringing my 11 month old child..unfortunately, i have no one to leave my baby to. I hope my baby enjoys it too although the nostalgic atmosphere might just turn up to be very noisy for her…but i hope and pray she enjoys and allows us to enjoy too. Hoping to see you soon.
Lots of luv and best wishes….
Kavita.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:37 am
I’m not sure why my comment on your media furore did not make it after moderation…it was an opinion expressed…albeit different from yours and some harsh criticism to boot….but there was no foul language or inappropriate sentiment expressed….I must wonder why then it failed to show up on your blog. Who is moderating responses and what are the criteria being used? Care to respond Mr B?
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:42 am
Am I the first? Maybe not. I am going to read the entry now. A few of my comments did not get through yesterday.
Are you in the UK now, I wonder? I will check now and find out!
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:43 am
This is downright defamation, slander, and libel on the part of Asian Age. This is grossly malicious on their part to (try to) destroy the credibility of a highly professional, highly celebrated, highly credible, and most loved and respected human being of our times - Mrs. Jaya Bachchan.
I mean this is a case of so much smoke, where there is absolutely no fire. Absolute no truth in the article. Outright lies. This should not stand. They should be made to face the consequences of their action.
Who are these Asian Age people? Where are they whipping out these kind of articles from? I, for one, had never heard of them. I pledge not to contribute to their existence. I will NOT visit their website, and increase their hits and thereby their advertising revenue. I urge all fellow bloggers not to patronize any such so-called news organizations. Hit them hard where it counts - in their pocket books.
A law suit and gherao of their organization is in order! But then, that would give them undue publicity. Frustrating.
Best wishes and loves to the entire Bachchan family.
Suresh Sadarangani
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:45 am
Dear Mr. Bachchan
It’s been so many years now that the media has written things about you that have not been true. As a fan in London, I have never believed what they write about you, family, or your films because the truth always shows it’s self in time.
(Asian Age of Mumbai should get it’s facts right before printing such jibberish. When the movie come out, we’ll find find out who’s in it.)
NO - I do not think you get paid for writing this blog, everyting you write is so beautifully written, one can tell it’s from the heart, things that you do not need to share with anyone in the world, you have have chosen to share with your fans, and I THANK YOU. This blog is fantastic.
Jayaji is always loved.
Love
Ms Sundeep
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:48 am
MR BACCHAN,
YOU MUST NOT LOSE YOUR COOL, BAD FOR BP, MI MAY BE FINAL, BUT CVA CAN BE REAL AWFUL
WHO IS INFLAMING YOU?
YOU MUST GET A WISE PUBLIC RELATIONS PERSON,
DON’T LET PEOPLE SEND YOU FAXES OF NEWS PAPER CUTTINGS, WHEN YOU HAVE A BUSY SCHEDULE, JET LAG AND NO SLEEP AND ARE EXTREMELY TIRED
RIPP IT OFF, DEAL WITH IT WHEN YOU ARE RELAXED
IT IS NOT THAT SOME ONE HAS A WARRANT ON YOU, AND YOU SHOULD KNOW OF A COURT ORDER, TO BE SENT TO YOU URGENTLY
WHY DO YOU PEOPLE HAVE A ”HOLIER THAN GOD” COMPLEX
SPOUSE COULD SAY ” NO SUCH SIGNING OF A FILM AND GETTING OUT OF IT DUE TO IMPORTANT ENGAGEMENTS EXISTS”
THERE ARE NO INDIAN PENAL CODE LAW ,SO YOU CAN COMPELL PEOPLE TO BEHAVE THE WAY YOU WANT
SPOUSE MUST BE GREATFUL SOME ONE SAID ”SHE SIGNED SOMETHING AND HAD TO GET OUT OF IT DUE TO OTHER VERY IMPORTANT ENGAGEMENTS”
SHE DOES NOT HAVE ANY OFFERS, SHE LIVES IN THE PAST AND REPEATS THE OVERLY EMOTIONAL ACTING METHODS, SHE HAS NOT KEPT HERSELF PHYSICALLY FIT, OR PRESENTABLE, LIKE SOME OTHER ACTRESSES, I THINK SHE HAS AN ATTITUDE THAT SHE DOES NOT NEED TO, SHE IS WRONG
WHEN YOU ARE GIVEN ADVANTAGES, AS THE SPOUSE OF A SUPER STAR, IT IS A RESPONSIBILITY TO LOOK LIKE A ROLE MODEL, INVOLVE ONESELF IN CHARITY, BE KIND, GENTLE AND LOOK EXTREMELY BEAUTIFUL, EVEN THOUGH YOU MAY BE REALLY MISERABLE
IS CRUDE AND HARSH
I HAVE SEEN ON TV THE WAY SPOUSE TREATS JUNIOR REPORTERS,
SPOUSE IS A PAID MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT+, I WOULD IMAGINE, DOES SHE NOT NEED TO ATTEND HER PUBLIC DUTIES AT PARLIAMENT OR WHEREVER SHE IS THE MEMBER
I HAVE SEEN RECENTLY AAB TALKING TO A JUNIOR REPORTER, WHO LOOKED PATHETIC. YOUR AAB WAS VERY VERY CONDESCENDING, NON CHALANT, RUDE, I THINK WHEN HE WENT TO INDIA DURING YOUR WORLD TOUR.
” YEAH I HAVE A HOUSE ” IN DUBAI, ETC”
TAKE A OCEAN VIEW APARTMENT SOME WHERE, NEAR WATER, IN THE WEST GET A RETREIVER, AND TAKE UP INDEPENDENT RESIDENCE
YOU NEED SPACE, I THINK, YOU ARE A PERSON, AND NOT AN APPENDAGE OF THE SPOUSE,
SE SHOULD STEP BACK AND LET YOUR PR PEOPLE DEAL WITH PR MATTERS
YOU ARE NOT AMOEBA WITH 8 CELLS
YOU ARE A PERSON,( SINGLE CELL AMOEBA HA HA HA HA ) GET A LIFE AND A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE
SPOUSE CAN DEAL WITH HER ISSUES, WRITE IN HER BLOG,
THE NOUEAVU RICHE SPOUSE OF AAB CAN OPEN HER WORLD AND WRITE AS SHE DID BEFORE
I HAVE SEEN THE AAB’S WIFE ON INTERNET AT CANNES, KIND OF MOCKING ( I PRESUMEDTO BE ) AN INDIAN REPORTER
I THINK MONEY HAS GONE TO YOU PEOPLE’S’ HEAD. AND YOU HAVE REAL SHAKUNIS AROUND YOU. I THINK IT IS THE POI BELLY POLTICX AND A VERY CONTROLLING SPOUSE IS MAKING ENEMIES FOR YOU
SOME ONE MIGHT BE TAKING ADVANTAGE , AND THESE PEOPLE MIGHT MAKE A LOT OF ENEMIES FOR YOU
WE ARE WRITING IN YOUR WEB LOG, AND SOMETIMES FEEL COMPELLED TO RESPOND, AS WE SEE THINGS
YOU ARE A SPECIAL PERON, SEE HOW PEOPLE FLOCK TO YOU LIKE MOTH, DON’T MAKE IT UGLY
YOU CAN DO SOME THING ABOUT THIS MEDIA WAR, INVITE THEM FOR A DINNER, OR A DIWALI/ HOLY FESTIVAL CELEBRATION AND HAVE A LOT OF FUN WITH ALL, ALL WILL BE FORGOTTEN
YOU HAVE THE MEANS AND MONEY
RELAX. TAKE A LONG NAP, GO FOR A WALK ALONE OR TO HERRODS FOR SHOPPING
YOU WILL BE OK
(Report abuse)
August 22nd, 2008 at 4:51 am
I support you in defending Jayaji after this article has been published.
However, speaking of your argument with the media in general, although there were times we suggested you not to pay attention, that is only because we have faith in you and care about you. It was a reassurance from our side that you need not worry. The media might be powerful but they are not powerful enough to change the way we feel about you. So as long as you stand in your own truth, nobody can take that truth away from you.
There will always be people who believe everything the media say. There will always be people who misunderstand you. But I believe you also know it is beyond the control of any human being to change a person’s attitude or perception. If you feel you are doing this not only to defend yourself but also to send a message to the media on how they should be more responsible in what they are doing, it is possible to show your stand in an objective manner. People will then know that your blog is not just a venue to get back at the media. And once you say what you have to say, please let it go. If some still chose not to believe you, it would no longer be your problem. It is theirs.
Yes, you have the right to clarify the matter and you have the right to protect yourself. But you have the choice whether to do it through a clear, calm, straightforward communication or through snide remarks. In your previous entry, I felt uncomfortable when I read the last paragrah where you told her to get married and told her ‘may you hold on to it till your old age without the use of any props!’ The rest of the article was already stern enough to let her know where she went wrong and that you did not approve of her article. Personally I do not think you had to go so far as to commenting her personal life.
I have always shown you support and understanding whenever you were being criticised, falsely accused or misquoted. But at the same time when you are being too harsh I think it is fair enough for me to express my opinion too. All in all, I do not think her article would be able to leave ‘lasting effect’ as in other unpleasant speculation which you still have to give explanation. It might be irritating and annoying, but it certainly cannot cause severe damage to your reputation. You marriage and the bond you share with Jayaji is certainly not something that can be tarnished by a single article. Everbody knows so.
My dear Mr. Bachchan, I am being honest with you because I have great affection for you. I will always be one of your fans, and believe in what you say more than what the media say. Nonetheless, from day one I have admired you as a gentle, loving, humble and sensitive person, not as ‘the legend’ or ‘larger-than-life public figure’ that I would never dare disagree with. I am certain a lot of people feel the same way, and that is why you will see us beg to differ now and then. My only hope is that you will not see our different opinions as criticism or attack. We just want to talk to you and share with you what we feel. After all, how can we say we communicate at a personal level if we never disagree with you? Only people closest to us that we disagree with the most. We, readers of your blog, are no exception.
I got a reminder e-mail from ticketmaster today regarding your concert this Sunday. Dress code for the event is smart casual, so I must make sure that I look my best. Happy to hear you have been well-taken care of in London. Enjoy your stay and rest well. Rest assured too that we love you and will always be by your side.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:54 am
i feel your pain BigB,cant you sue them?
Rajeev.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:57 am
Hello,
I am glad that you are clarifying. If you read my entry from yesterday, I have listed incidents where after reading articles, it has affected us. We do not know what the truth is, we only know what we read. How can we know?
Sukhjit
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August 22nd, 2008 at 4:59 am
I totally agree with you. The media in India is most of the time fabricating sensational stories. They leave the important day to day issues of the common man to die. Some of the news websites I used to read are utter trash these days. The headline and the story make no sense. I think the best bet is to ignore all the nonsense. I just read the hindu online, or bbcnews which are the only two sane sources still remaining.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 5:01 am
Mr. Bachchan,
I am not one of the readers who tell/ask you to ignore these accusations. I am glad that you are able to encounter and react to the media. If you do not, they will continue to exploit the reputation of you and your family. You deserve to be respected and be embraced by admiration.
Sujata.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 5:01 am
Call up K Sera Sera and blast them for using JayaJi’s name for publicity. Send them and the journalist/editor/owner of paper legal notice. Threaten them with defamation of charachter, publishing false and misleading information.
These people are such liers. The only thing they fear therefore respect is the LAW!!
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August 22nd, 2008 at 5:02 am
Hope u r part of RGV film on the media.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 5:04 am
Dear Amitji,
I was going to post a similar article to your blog FYI yesterday which I read on indiatimes.com.I did not thinking that the moderators might not post my comment.and here I am reading about the same thing from you.In the article posted by you on the blog-the reason for Jayaji not accepting the movie is that she would be with her family on unforgettable tour.But the article I read stated it in a different way and I am copying some lines from it here.
“A unit hand informs that Jaya Bachchan opted out because of date issues. Though she gave the excuse of date problems, Mrs Bachchan doesn’t have any films in hand.She left the film in the last minute and left the makers in a fix.”
FYI The complete article is posted below:
Shabana-Vinod Khanna pair up after 18 years
21 Aug, 2008 06:00 am ISTlReshma Kelkar /INDIATIMES MOVIES
Shabana Azmi and Vinod Khanna was a hot pair of the 70’s. After their last film Muqqaddar Ka Badshah , the duo will be once again seen in Ajay Phansekar’s forthcoming film Mukti. It is believed that Shabana Azami has replaced Jaya Bachchan in this film.
Produced by K Sera Sera, Mukti is a hard hitting film based on a real life incident in Mumbai. Though it’s a small budget film it has a big and interesting star cast. It stars Sanjay Dutt, Vinod Khanna, Sunil Shetty, Ravi Kishen and Rimmi Sen. It is believed that Jaya Bachchan was supposed to play Sanjay Dutt’s mother in the film but just before the film went on floor Jaya Bachchan opted out of it.
A unit hand informs that Jaya Bachchan opted out because of date issues. Though she gave the excuse of date problems, Mrs Bachchan doesn’t have any films in hand. Interestingly Jaya Bachchan is with her family for their Unforgettable World Tour. She walked out of the film in the last moment which left the makers in a fix. Luckily Shabana Azmi came to the rescue. Shabana will be seen in an interesting role.
It can be recalled that Vinod Khanna and Shabana gave films like Chor Sipahee, Shaque, Parvarish, Lahu Ke Do Rang , Khoon Ki Pukar and other films.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 5:06 am
My Dear Big B,
Hope you get some good ZZZZZZs soon. Wish you all good luck with your upcoming perfomances.
Take care & with love,
Sandhya
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August 22nd, 2008 at 5:07 am
It will take only one big Lawsuit from u which u have won that will be set as precedent to give notice to all media to be carefull in defaming you. Sometimes I think they are trying to incite people (violence/hate) against u as in the Raj Thackary media reporting. Aren’t there laws in India that protects the rights of the individual?
Someone has to take the first step. I know Ash sued one of the trashy mags in the past.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 5:09 am
Dear Mr. Bachchan,
Your anger is justified. You just HAVE to do something about this issue.
Warm regards
Gita
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August 22nd, 2008 at 5:10 am
hey dear amitji!!!!!!
dont mind that stupid rubbish!! you you were number 1!
you are number 1!
you are still number 1
and you will allways be number 1!!!!!!!!!
and dont you ever forget it!!!!!! you got that????????
eat youre heart out you jealouss people!!!!!!
amitabh bachchan “zinda baat”!!!!!!
long live amitji!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
love you man!!!!!!
mayan!
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August 22nd, 2008 at 5:13 am
Dear Mr. Bachchan,
No slight stretching, flagrant disregard, or outright ignoring of the truth should ever be considered insignificant.
In regards to the media, I feel that if such articles as you have posted recently are simply shrugged off–then the indication would be that you condone them.
Such articles, though small they may well be, can definitely create large problems—just as a deadly virus can be born from very tiny germs (that are insignificant of themselves) unless they are held in check.
I feel the media has gotten away with this sort of thing far too long simply because the subjects of their articles do not confront them or hold them accountable for what they put forth in their publications, their TV broadcasts, and their radio transmissions.
You are definitely right to be taking a stern stand!
Fighting for the truth, on any level, is precisely what one should do!
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August 22nd, 2008 at 5:14 am
Geez Big B,
I’ve been proven wrong again.
When i first read the article, I really saw it as a no big deal article, artist in hollywood and bollywood sign contracts, and later opt out. I noticed the wording was a little harsh, but were use to that too, as we realize the journalist try to make the articles interesting and inviting. But in no way did that article change my opinion towards Mrs. B. i’ve always seen her as a beautiful lady. Its not like it was talking about Britany Spears or the Madame.
So what changed everything was reading your side of it and finding that the incident never happened. Thats really sick.
I can just say dearest Big B, is that you and Mrs BigB, have very loyal fans. Nothing they can write or say can change our opionions of the Bachachan family.
Thank goodness for this blog, now we can get the truth straight from the horse’s mouth :)) LOL
Keep up the good work,
Baljit
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August 22nd, 2008 at 5:20 am
Dear Sir,
This shows how much you care and love your wife.
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August 22nd, 2008 at 5:24 am
Dear Mr. B.,
As soon as I saw the article I thought … “It’s a lie, and Amitabh will answer it.” And you have. And good for you. I don’t blame Mrs. Bachchan for her reaction; I would be fuming as well if somebody lied about me with as little conscience as this writer. It must be maddening not to be able to walk out on the street and shout, “It’s just not true!” and have everyone hear it who saw the original story.
It’s said that a lie goes around the world before the truth gets its shoes tied, and this is one example of that. There will be those who still believe it no matter what’s said. The accusation alone is enough to sully a reputation. It’s a shame. I’m so sorry your family has to put up with this lack of scruple in the press.
Life is sometimes good for the famous, and sometimes infuriating. Keep plugging away, though. We don’t want you to give up and cave in to these people.
Aloha from Hawaii …
Love to you and Jayaji, Dorothy
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August 22nd, 2008 at 5:26 am
I READ THIS NEWS YESTERDAY ON WESITE. KNOWING JAYAJI’S PROFESSIONALISM I JUST DIDN’T WANT TO BELIEVE THIS NEWS AND AFTER I READ YOUR BLOG I FEEL MEDIA CAN GO TO ANY LENGTH TO GAIN PUBLICITY..JUST LIKE POLITICIANS IN OUR COUNTRY…
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August 22nd, 2008 at 5:27 am
Hello Sir,
I am a big fan of yours and saw your brilliant performance at Atlantic City. However after the show I was pretty disappointed because I lost my brand new camera because of my carelessness.
So, I am using your blog to try finding it, hope you wont mind.
If any one has found a sony camera inside a black leather case at Atlantic City, I would be highly oblidged if you can please email me at
amitabhjifan@gmail.com
Thanks so much
Af
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August 22nd, 2008 at 5:37 am
Dear Mr. Bachchan,
Namaste.
Hope you are better now, have taken some rest, and have recovered this jet lag.
Yea…I agree with you. This is your blog, and you have the full right to choose and decide what to put on. And of course all your dedicated readers must have noticed that you write about everything and share many things with us.
Though I had mai