How ₹500 Changed Amitabh Bachchan’s Life Untold Story of Bollywood’s Angry Young Man

In the early days of his career, Bollywood’s legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan faced more struggles than most people know. One of the most interesting stories he shared about his initial journey reveals how a small role and a payment of just ₹500 became a turning point in his life.

In 1978, Amitabh was offered a minor role in the film Junoon, produced by renowned actor Shashi Kapoor. The scene involved a crowd gathered around after Shashi Kapoor’s character dies. Among that crowd stood Amitabh Bachchan. However, seeing himself as just another face in the crowd didn’t sit well with the rising star.

Amitabh humbly approached the film’s director and requested to delete his scene from the film. He believed he was capable of doing much more than background roles. Interestingly, Shashi Kapoor noticed Amitabh’s potential and advised him, “You are made for bigger things. Don’t waste yourself on such small appearances.”

That advice proved prophetic. Soon after, Amitabh Bachchan was cast in Zanjeer—the film that established him as Bollywood’s “Angry Young Man”. The movie’s success changed the trajectory of his career and turned him into a household name.

Later on, Amitabh and Shashi Kapoor went on to become one of Bollywood’s most successful on-screen pairs, starring in classics like Kala Patthar, Shaan, Namak Halaal, and Akayla.

This lesser-known incident from Amitabh Bachchan’s early career shows how believing in oneself and knowing your worth can lead to greatness.