- Sunday, March 23, 2025
By: Vibhuti Pathak
Filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya recently revealed that he was extremely nervous before pitching Uunchai to Amitabh Bachchan, describing the legendary actor as “scary.” The director, who recently won the National Film Award for Best Director for Uunchai, admitting that he even took anxiety medication before speaking to Bachchan.
Barjatya explained that while he had locked the concept of Uunchai in 2016, he had not originally planned to direct the film himself. However, after struggling to find a suitable director, he decided to take on the challenge, despite it being very different from his usual family-oriented storytelling. He spent a few months developing the script and then faced the daunting task of approaching Amitabh Bachchan.
Speaking about his initial interaction with the superstar, Barjatya recalled how intimidating Bachchan was. “He listens with his eyes—he doesn’t blink. And that’s scary,” he said. When he finally sent Bachchan the script, the actor responded via a Zoom call. Barjatya confessed that he was so nervous before the call that he had to take two anxiety pills to calm himself down.
Uunchai is an emotional adventure drama produced by Rajshri Productions. The film follows three elderly friends—played by Amitabh Bachchan, Anupam Kher, and Boman Irani—who embark on a journey to the Everest Base Camp to honor their late friend’s last wish. Along the way, they face physical and emotional challenges that transform their perspectives on life and freedom. The ensemble cast also includes Danny Denzongpa, Parineeti Chopra, Neena Gupta, and Sarika.
The movie marked Sooraj Barjatya’s return to direction after Prem Ratan Dhan Payo (2015). It won accolades at the 70th National Film Awards, with Neena Gupta receiving the award for Best Supporting Actress.
After Uunchai, Amitabh Bachchan was last seen in Vettaiyan, which reunited him with Rajinikanth after nearly three decades. However, the film received a mixed response. Up next, he will be seen in Ribhu Dasgupta’s courtroom drama Section 84.
Additionally, Bachchan is set to return in Kalki 2898 AD 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the Nag Ashwin-directed sci-fi epic. The film is expected to go on floors in December 2025, further adding to the megastar’s packed slate.
Sooraj Barjatya’s candid revelation about his nervousness around Amitabh Bachchan showcases the actor’s legendary presence in Bollywood. Despite his decades-long experience, even a seasoned filmmaker like Barjatya felt the pressure of working with the industry icon.
