Amitabh Bachchan, the towering icon of Indian cinema, may be celebrated today as one of Bollywood’s wealthiest stars, yet his journey is one of the greatest comeback stories of all time.
In the late 1990s, Bachchan found himself in a dire financial crisis, facing a loan burden of approximately 90 crores, mounting legal troubles, and a dwindling career. His resilience and determination not only saved him from the edge of bankruptcy but also redefined his legacy as a true icon of endurance and persistence.
The Financial Crisis: Debt, Legal Troubles, and Isolation
At the peak of his financial troubles, Bachchan was staring at a colossal debt and struggling to keep his company, ABCL (Amitabh Bachchan Corporation Ltd.), afloat. Founded in 1995, ABCL was a visionary attempt to expand Bollywood’s horizons into various fields, but the venture quickly turned sour. Losses accumulated, and by the end of the 90s, Bachchan was faced with around 90 crore rupees in debt, a staggering amount by any measure.
During an interview, Bachchan shared how desperate those times were. He had around 55 legal cases against him, creditors were hounding him day and night, and his assets were on the line. He recalled feeling humiliated as people avoided him. Despite having been a superstar for decades, Bachchan was facing a career and personal low like never before. In this moment of despair, he woke up early one morning and, with a heavy heart, went to his office at 4 a.m. to think through his options. He asked himself a simple but crucial question: “What can I do best?” The answer, as it had always been, was acting.
A Lifeline from a Friend: Yash Chopra and Mohabbatein
Realizing he needed to get back to his roots, Bachchan sought the help of a close friend and legendary filmmaker, Yash Chopra. Yash Chopra’s house was close to Bachchan’s, and without hesitation, he walked over and requested a role. Bachchan directly told Yash Chopra, “I am out of a job, give me work.”
Yash Chopra’s response was instant and generous. He told Bachchan he had a role for him in his upcoming film Mohabbatein, a film that was sure to be a hit with Bollywood fans. The role was that of a stern but loving college principal opposite the rising star Shah Rukh Khan. This role reintroduced Amitabh Bachchan to a younger generation, and his powerful performance in Mohabbatein marked the beginning of his comeback in the industry.
The Turning Point: Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC)
Shortly after Mohabbatein, another opportunity knocked on his door. Bachchan was approached to host a new quiz show, Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC), which was adapted from the British show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? KBC premiered in 2000, and it was an overnight sensation. Indian audiences were captivated by Bachchan’s warmth, charisma, and humility. His iconic “Lock kiya jaye?” (Shall we lock it?) became a phrase every household echoed.
The show brought Bachchan back into the limelight and became one of India’s most beloved TV shows. Bachchan’s magnetic presence on KBC was not only a massive financial success but also a personal redemption. The money he earned from the show helped him pay off his debts, and his image as a superstar was again solidified.
The Legacy of an Underdog Comeback
Today, Amitabh Bachchan is one of Bollywood’s richest actors, a recipient of numerous awards, and a cultural icon whose influence spans generations. Yet, he never forgot his struggles. His comeback wasn’t just about restoring his career, it was a complete transformation. Bachchan diversified his work into films, television, endorsements, and charity work.
A Symbol of Resilience
Amitabh Bachchan’s journey from bankruptcy to being one of the richest actors in Bollywood is more than an underdog story, it’s a lesson in humility, perseverance, and self-belief. When everything seemed lost, he found the courage to start from scratch, face his circumstances head-on, and ask for a second chance.
In an industry where fame can be fleeting, Bachchan’s story remains one of the most inspiring tales of resilience, showing that with the right mindset, support, and hard work, it’s possible to bounce back even from the depths of despair.
