Amitabh Bachchan may today be celebrated as a timeless icon of Indian cinema, but his journey includes a chapter few can forget — a period when his career stalled, his company collapsed, and he found himself drowning in legal and financial turmoil. During the late 1990s, the megastar was battling a situation so severe that he had no films, faced 55 lawsuits, and was burdened with debts amounting to nearly Rs 90 crore. What helped him endure that overwhelming period were not industry connections or fame, but two profound teachings from his father, the renowned poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan.
Amitabh Bachchan Reflects on His Lowest Phase
Over the years, Bachchan has openly spoken about the crisis that shook him to the core. His production company had gone bankrupt, and because he had personally guaranteed its loans, his home and personal assets were at risk. In an interview with Mail Today in 2013, he recalled how creditors showed up at his doorstep daily, a reality he described as deeply painful and humiliating.
The crisis worsened when over 50 legal cases were filed against him. What hurt him emotionally was the sudden shift in people’s behaviour—those who once sought his attention were quick to distance themselves or turn hostile. Bachchan admitted that he had signed several documents without understanding the consequences, often reassured by others that “nothing would go wrong.” When things finally collapsed, he stood alone to deal with the fallout.
His comeback began with Yash Chopra’s film Mohabbatein, which revived his career and marked the start of a powerful second innings. But Bachchan says that the real strength that carried him through came from the wisdom of his father.
Two Life Lessons From Harivansh Rai Bachchan That Changed Everything
Amitabh Bachchan often credits his father’s words for shaping his perspective on hardship and resilience.
1. Accepting Life’s Unpredictability
His father once told him:
“If life happens according to your wish, it’s good. But if it doesn’t, that’s even better.”
When Bachchan questioned this, his father explained that if events do not unfold as desired, it means a greater force is working in your favour — something much better may be destined. Bachchan admits he didn’t understand this during his younger days, but during his financial crisis, these words became a guiding light.
2. Understanding That Struggle Is a Constant Companion
In another conversation, Amitabh told his father that life felt like a continuous battle. His father gently replied:
“As long as you live, struggle will remain a part of life.”
This perspective helped Bachchan accept difficulties with courage. By viewing struggle as an inevitable part of existence, he felt less disappointed and more prepared to face each day with determination.
Even today, the 82-year-old actor says he draws inspiration from these lessons, which continue to guide him both personally and professionally.
Amitabh Bachchan’s Continuing Legacy
The veteran star was last seen in the 2024 action drama Vettaiyan, directed by T. J. Gnanavel and led by Rajinikanth. The film featured an ensemble including Fahadh Faasil, Manju Warrier, Ritika Singh, and Rana Daggubati. Despite his age, Bachchan remains one of the busiest actors in the industry — a testament to his unshakable spirit and refusal to let setbacks define him.