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Still going strong

Amitabh proves he’s got what it takes as he draws packed houses on ‘Unforgettable’ US Tour

INDIAN FILM icon Amitabh Bachchan is drawing packed houses on ‘The Unforgettable Tour’ he is taking through six cities with his actor son Abhishek and daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai.

“It must be centuries ago that I did my last tour,” Bachchan told the Chicago Tribune. “Many, many years ago I stopped doing shows. At age 66, it’s not advisable to get back on the stage, but the organisers, managers and other artistes involved, particularly Aishwarya, were very keen that I come along.”

And reports from previous dates on the tour have been that Bachchan’s age has not been an issue, his performance energetic and electrifying for pleased fans, it said.

“What we do onstage is a reproduction of what we do on film, so obviously music, dancing and singing are an integral part.” Bachchan was quoted as saying. Some of the film favourites the show covers may include Don, Kaalia, Bunty Aur Babli, Kabhi Kabhie and Silsila,” he said.

Bachchan doesn’t deny that there is some lip-syncing, as the dancing portion of the show can be strenuous.

The name Amitabh Bachchan is nearly synonymous with Bollywood, so some might find it ironic that Bachchan shrugs off the hugely popular tag. “We prefer Indian film industry,” he says.

“I have no idea if it is,” says Bachchan in response to speculation that this might be his last tour ever. “I thought of that 20 years ago, and I’m back, so one never knows. I’m just thankful people still consider me a performer. It’s very gratifying.”

Bachchan says he welcomes people who recognise him on the street to say “hello” and shake his hand, and that even he still gets nervous about performing.