Abhishek Bachchan on His Sikh Role in Manmarziyaan, Emotional Family Connect & Working with Amitabh Bachchan

Team L&M

Actor Abhishek Bachchan, who plays a Sikh character in Manmarziyaan, says the role carries a deep emotional connection for him, as his paternal grandmother, the late Teji Bachchan, belonged to the Sikh community. He believes she would have been happy to see him portray this part on screen.

When Abhishek’s first look from the film was released, his father, megastar Amitabh Bachchan, shared it on social media and expressed pride in his son’s transformation.

“Yes, dad shared the picture of my turbaned look and said he felt proud. My dadima (grandmother) was Sikh, so there is an emotional attachment to the whole thing,” Abhishek told IANS.

He added that while he initially focused only on performance during the shoot, the emotional value of the role became clearer later. “The first time I wore the turban for the look test, I was focused on my performance. But when I later saw the footage, it felt special. I think my dadima would have been happy to see me as a sardar on screen,” he said.

Nostalgia Around His Grandmother Teji Bachchan

Talking about his grandmother, Abhishek became nostalgic, recalling the warmth of his childhood memories.

“Dadima used to tell my sister and me wonderful bedtime stories. She would put us to sleep with those stories. We have so many lovely memories with her,” he shared.

His sister Shweta Bachchan has recently stepped into the world of design, continuing the family’s creative legacy.

Shooting in Amritsar and Role in Manmarziyaan

Manmarziyaan is set in Amritsar, where Abhishek plays Robbie, a London-based banker who returns to his hometown for an arranged marriage. However, he soon discovers that his bride-to-be is in love with someone else.

Despite the vibrant setting, Abhishek admitted he did not get much time to explore the city. “We had a tight schedule, so we didn’t really get time to explore Amritsar during the shoot,” he said.

The film also stars Taapsee Pannu and Vicky Kaushal in pivotal roles.

Working with Amitabh Bachchan: A Unique Experience

Abhishek has shared screen space with both his parents—Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan—as well as his wife Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. However, he says working with his father remains a unique experience.

“As an actor, he disarms you and makes you very comfortable in front of the camera. But I know he is my dad, so I can go back home and discuss my character with him. It’s a combination of father-son and co-workers,” he explained.

He has previously worked with Amitabh Bachchan in films like Paa, Sarkar, and Bunty Aur Babli. “Anyone who has worked with him would love to work with him again and again,” he added.

Excitement About Working with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Abhishek also spoke about his upcoming film Gulab Jamun, where he will share screen space with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan after nearly eight years.

“We will be working together almost after eight years. So yes, I am excited. We don’t know when shooting will begin, but the script is wonderful,” he said.

Parenting in the Paparazzi Era

Talking about his daughter Aaradhya and media attention, Abhishek said she is gradually getting used to the constant presence of photographers.

“She has no choice, I guess. A child cannot fully feel comfortable with flashing cameras,” he said.

He credited Aishwarya for helping Aaradhya adjust. “Aishwarya has worked hard to make her understand that photographers will be around when we go out. She knows it now and doesn’t get scared,” he said.

The actor added that they try to ensure Aaradhya enjoys a normal childhood despite the spotlight.

Manmarziyaan continues to be remembered for its strong performances and emotionally layered storytelling, with Abhishek Bachchan’s role adding a personal and cultural depth to the narrative.