He is in town to promote a new Omega watch. I am waiting in line for an interview with one of the hottest stars of Bollywood. “So, how many of your Twitter followers have questions for me?” he begins, taking me totally aback. “Oh yes, I do read tweets,” he smiles. From holding the door open when I walk in to answering all the wacky questions with a smile to clicking a selfie with me, it’s charming, charismatic, cheerful Abhishek Bachchan at his best.
So, what’s your Chennai connection?
I connect with the city both personally and professionally. My Chennai connection is many years old. My father did a lot of work here in the mid-80s to mid-90s and I remember spending many summers here. Once I became an actor, I have shot four or five films here. I keep coming back. Mani (Mani Ratnam) is a big connect for me with Chennai; in fact, one of my best friends is from Chennai. I share a deep connect with Chennai.
You are here to promote Omega, but most actors are infamous for their punctuality... your take?
I don’t really know about others but for me being Omega’s brand ambassador, the watch helps me stay on time. It’s simple — if you respect time, time will respect you.
Dhoom 3toHappy New Year... has it been a resolution to do just one film a year?
No, it has just panned out that way. I am shooting for another film All is Well . Films do take their own time to finish. It is an organic process.
Actor or producer-director...kya idea hai sirji?
Actor. I don’t like producing even though I have already produced two films and will be producing two more. Also, I don’t like producing films in which I am acting. It’s difficult to work wearing two hats because, on certain levels, the two (roles) work against each other.
Stars above or the stars at home: who do you look up to?
The stars at home. I look up to each one of them, including my sister who is not an actor. They are my greatest strength and my greatest support system and the greatest examples as well.
Besides movies and acting, the one thing you envy about your dad?
For me it would not be envy. I would call it a “wish”. He is the best father anyone could ever ask for and I wish I could be the same for my daughter.
A reality show you would participate inat gunpoint...
I would not. I would take the bullet.
Life teaches everyone some lessons. If you could teachsome lessons, what would it be?
I am not good at teaching. I am better off being a student.
A fashion move or wardrobe you regret even today?
I don’t. Everything I wear is fashionable.
Kabaddi to Football League... do they bring out the sporty you?
Of course they do. I have been into sports all my school life. I am very passionate about kabbadi and football. And I am very happy bringing football to Chennai. The city is passionate about everything from food and cinema to sports.
