More than five decades after the iconic 1975 film Deewaar, a long-time admirer of Amitabh Bachchan met the star and presented him with a signed tribute.
Dubai-based gold businessman Anil Dhanak visited Bachchan at his residence in Juhu, Mumbai. He gifted the actor a canvas inspired by the film’s iconic imagery. Bachchan signed the Deewaar artwork, turning it into a collector’s item.
The meeting coincided with the 51st anniversary of Deewaar, widely regarded as the film that established Bachchan as Bollywood’s “angry young man.” The film is remembered as a milestone in Indian cinema, reflecting social tensions of its era.
Dhanak, owner of the world’s largest gold ring listed in the Guinness World Records, praised Bachchan’s punctuality and humility.
“He arrived exactly on time and was incredibly warm and grounded. For someone of his stature, that kind of discipline is rare,” Dhanak said.
Reflecting on the encounter, Dhanak described Bachchan as more than a movie star.
“With a career spanning over five decades, he is the face of Indian cinema. His respect comes not just from performances but also professionalism and humility,” he added.
Dhanak noted that the Deewaar artwork symbolizes a film that went beyond entertainment. “It captured the anger and frustration of a generation grappling with inequality and injustice,” he said, emphasizing its continued relevance.
The meeting also revived Dhanak’s early cinema memories. Decades ago, he owned Amruta Cinema in Bagasara, Gujarat, where Bachchan’s films consistently drew huge crowds.
“When an Amitabh Bachchan film released, it was a celebration. People lined up early, and the theatre remained full for days,” he recalled.
Dhanak described sitting with Bachchan at his home as a surreal experience. “To go from screening his films in a small-town theatre to meeting him personally feels almost cinematic,” he said.
Known for his UAE connections, Dhanak has attended events hosted by royals, including Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and CEO of the Emirates Group.
The signed Deewaar artwork now serves as a unique homage to both the actor and the legendary film that shaped Bollywood history.
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