Amitabh Bachchan - When a Diwali Injury Became the Iconic Style of ‘Sharaabi’

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan is known not just for his acting but also for his unwavering dedication to work. One such untold story of his “show must go on” spirit is linked to the Diwali festival, almost 40 years ago (around 1983–84). Even today, when we watch his blockbuster films Sharaabi or Inquilaab, we notice a particular signature style — but very few know that this style was actually a way to hide a serious injury.

The Diwali Accident and the Challenge of Healing

As every year, the Bachchan family was celebrating Diwali grandly. During the festivities, a firecracker accident severely burned Amitabh Bachchan’s left hand. The injury was so serious that the movement between his thumb and index finger was almost halted. Later, he revealed in his blog that it took him nearly two months to regain normal movement in his fingers. Despite doctors’ advice to rest, Big B refused to stop working, as two of his major films at the time — a Madras production (Inquilaab) and Sharaabi — were still shooting.

Creative Ways to Hide the Burned Hand

This was the time when Amitabh Bachchan adopted creative methods to conceal his injury, which later became an iconic style statement for his characters.

In Inquilaab (1984): To hide his burned hand, Amitabh wrapped it with a handkerchief or bandage throughout the film. He later shared that the shoot continued, and he turned the handkerchief into a style statement.

In Sharaabi (1984): In this film, he came up with an even more unique method. Big B kept his left hand tucked into his coat or pant pocket throughout the film. Audiences assumed it was part of the attitude of his ‘Sharaabi’ character, whereas in reality, he was concealing the unbearable pain of his burned hand.

The Struggle Behind the Screen

Even today, as we see Amitabh Bachchan continuously working at this stage of his career, this old incident reflects the depth of his professional commitment. Despite suffering a serious injury during Diwali, he continued working — proving that for the superstar, work always comes first, no matter how much pain he has to hide behind the scenes.

FAQs

Q1. When was Amitabh Bachchan's birthday celebrated?

A1. Amitabh Bachchan's birthday was celebrated on 11 October.

Q2. How did the stalwarts of the film industry honour him?

A2. Veterans from the film industry honoured his contributions and extended their best wishes through social media, special events and messages.

Q3. What special events were held on this occasion?

A3. Special screenings, tribute events, and fan celebrations were held in several locations.

Q4. What was Amitabh Bachchan praised for?

A4. He was praised for his decades-long contribution to Indian cinema, iconic characters and inspirational personality.

Q5. Did the young artistes also congratulate him?

A5. Yes, many young actors and directors shared posts on social media to express their respect for Amitabh Bachchan.

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