Pain-proof Big B

Despite having a fractured rib, superstar Amitabh Bachchan continued shooting for his film in Malta

Amitabh Bachchan has been known for his professionalism and dedication for years now. And in the latest instance — as HT Café has learnt — the veteran actor has left the cast and crew of his new film, Thugs of Hindostan, impressed with his work ethic.

Apparently, Big B had wrapped up his portions while shooting for the film in Malta last month and was to fly to India after an extra day’s work. However, he started experiencing increasing pain in his lower back due to an injury during the shoot.

A source says, “Filming for the action scenes had resulted in an injury for Amitji. He had cracked his upper-left rib, but he continued to shoot despite excruciating pain, as the film’s shoot was being done on a tight schedule.”

The film’s writer and director, Vijay Krishna Acharya, wanted to avoid shooting with Bachchan given the kind of pain he was in on the last day. “But Amitji chose to complete the shoot despite the makers agreeing to reschedule it,” says the insider.

Acharya says that having Big B on his set was an “extraordinary experience” and that’s why filming with the superstar came with several emotional moments. “I have grown up idolising him and am an absolute fan of his ’70s films, like Deewar (1975). I was worried that Mr Bachchan had to deal with such pain,” he says.

Acharya says Bachchan “insisted on completing his

The kind of professional focus, commitment and sheer love for cinema Mr Bachchan has is quite unmatched. VIJAY KRISHNA ACHARYA, DIRECTOR

portions and actually did a brilliant job”. The director says, “The kind of professional focus, commitment and sheer love for cinema he has is quite unmatched.”

It was only on his return to Mumbai that Bachchan had an MRI scan done as per his doctor’s advice, and the source of his “terrible” pain was found. “Despite a cracked rib, he continued to focus on the film’s shoot and push himself. I am overwhelmed, as is the unit, which also gave their 100% to make that day as easy as possible for Mr Bachchan,” says Acharya.