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
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