When Taapsee got Big B’s letter

Actor Taapsee Pannu recalls fond memories of Pink, which released two years ago, and her ‘cool equation’ with Amitabh Bachchan

Filmmaker Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury’s 2016 film Pink was a game changer, not just for the actors in the film but also in the way the country viewed the concept of consent. Actor Taapsee Pannu, who played the protagonist in the National Award-winning film shared gritty scenes with veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan.

After two years of the film’s release, the two actors share a great relationship, despite being decades apart in age.

“I just cherished everything from the film, whether it was the first day of my shooting with Mr Bachchan, where I could not keep my eyes stable when a scene was being shot, or the court room sequences where after a really tough scene he hugged me,” says Taapsee.

“It’s very interesting to see that my film Manmarziyaan has released so close to the date of Pink’s release, two years ago (Pink released on September 16, 2016). The best part is that Amitabh sir has seen the film and he sent a handwritten letter for me. I have been waiting for this from the time I did Pink,” shares an excited Taapsee.

The actor, who also shared screen space with other actors such as Angad Bedi and Kirti Kulhari in the courtroom drama recalls an incident.

“I think I remember the time when he (Amitabh Bachchan) was reciting his father’s (late Harivansh Rai Bachchan) poems and we would just sit around him and listen. We share such a cool equation. Pink and Mr Bachchan remain a really special film and co-star for me,” she says.

After Pink, Taapsee went on to do multiple successful films such as Judwaa 2 (2017) and Naam Shabana (2017). She adds that Pink has helped her get a clear perspective in her career.

“Pink was an important film because it really helped me get a sense of direction as to what kind of roles people want me to do and like me doing and what really works for me. It was pretty decisive,” shares Taapsee.

I remember the time when he (Amitabh Bachchan) was reciting his father’s poems and we would just sit around him and listen. Pink and Mr Bachchan remain a really special film and costar for me.

TAAPSEE PANNU ACTOR

PHOTO: AMAL KS/HT Taapsee Pannu has received a handwritten letter from her Pink costar Amitabh Bachchan after he watched her recent film, Manmarziyaan