Bachchan Junior’s London chronicle
Abhishek Bachchan at an event in London
If Amitabh Bachchan had created a flutter during the torch relay just ahead of the 2012 Olympic Games here, actor son Abhishek is having a time of his life visiting the Olympic venues and savouring the best of action.
Bachchan Junior began his London visit at the Wimbledon Centre Court watching home boy Andy Murray waltz past Roger Federer of Switzerland, while the evening was spent watching the one and only Usain Bolt.
Abhishek, who spent time talking to mediapersons at the Omega House on Monday night, said he was “extremely proud” of the Indian athletes participating at the Olympics and would like to see Mary Kom battle it out in the boxing semi-finals.
“I think to be at this stage is an achievement in itself. I am a sports follower, having competed at basketball and athletics at the school and college level,” Abhishek said.
“It is a Herculean task to even qualify for the Olympics, and all of them here have done that already. Now, support, encouragement and dedication are the only way ahead. As an Indian, I would celebrate every medal applauding their efforts.”
Talking about sport in India, the 36-year old said, “I think the mindset in India is that sport is only a recreational activity, and not a serious career option. And it’s time to change that since the talent in the country is huge.”
Bachchan, who was in London on a two-day trip before heading to the US for a shoot, said he often catches up on I-League action on television.
He hinted that he would like to promote sport in India whenever possible. “I have spoken to some people here too asking what avenues we could explore to cultivate a sporting culture. Even if it takes several generations, it is an investment worth making for a country,” he said.
Asked about a sport he would pick, Abhishek pondered and said, kabaddi. “That is a sport no one can beat us at!” he said with a huge smile.
He wished the Indian contingent well, saying the entire nation was praying for their success.
“There is nothing better for the morale of a country than winning a sporting event. I was there on the streets with my neighbours and half of India when we won the Cricket World Cup last year. It unites the nation, and such moments at the Olympics are cherished,” he said.
AB Junior was also happy about the Game’s opening ceremony on July 27, saying its tongue-in-cheek humour enthralled everyone.
“Rowan Atkinson (Mr Bean) playing the Chariots of the Fire and the Queen jumping out of a helicopter were the high points for me. It was a conscious effort to do away from the stiff, upper lip British ceremonies. It was nothing serious, everything very neat and sleek, and I really liked it,” he said.
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