Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan recently shared insights into his family background, revealing his Sikh heritage on the popular quiz show Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC). In a candid conversation with contestant Kirti, Bachchan mentioned that his parents’ marriage could be considered an inter-caste union, although he finds the term “awkward” to use.
“My father was from Uttar Pradesh, and my mother was from a Sikh family. I believe I am half-Sardar,” Amitabh said during the episode. Recalling fond memories from his childhood, he added, “When I was born, my masis (maternal aunts) would say, ‘Kinna sona putar hai, sadda Amitabh Singh (What a beautiful son, our Amitabh Singh).’”
The exchange was sparked by a discussion about inter-caste marriages, where Bachchan emphasized that labels like “inter-caste” did not seem appropriate for his parents’ relationship. His revelation provided a rare glimpse into his personal life, something the actor seldom discusses in public.
View this post on Instagram
Struggles in School and Light-Hearted Banter
During the same episode, Amitabh Bachchan also spoke about his school days, confessing his difficulties with Mathematics. He humorously admitted to scoring just 42 marks in one of his exams, a relatable moment that lightened the mood on set.
In another playful segment, Kirti asked whether he gifts jewellery to his wife, veteran actor Jaya Bachchan. With characteristic wit, he responded, “You’ve asked me quite a personal question, but yes, I do gift her. Hope no one from the Income Tax department is watching this!”
A Glimpse into Amitabh’s Parents’ Legacy
Amitabh’s father, Harivansh Rai Bachchan, was a celebrated poet and a key figure in the Nayi Kavita movement of 20th-century Hindi literature. His poem Madhushala remains iconic. In 1976, Harivansh was awarded the Padma Bhushan. His family, originally Srivastav by name, adopted “Bachchan” as a pen name.
Amitabh’s mother, Teji Bachchan, hailed from a Sikh family in Lyallpur, Punjab, and was a social activist. The couple met at a college event in Lahore, and married in Allahabad in 1941. Teji was also an actress, having played Lady Macbeth in Harivansh’s adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth.
Amitabh and his brother Ajitabh grew up in this culturally rich household. On the professional front, the actor will soon appear in the films Vettaiyan and Section 84.
