Hema Malini reveals Amitabh Bachchan helped her overcome pre-'Baghban' nervousness: 'We are sailing in the same boat, milke kar lenge'
ETimes | July 18, 2026 7:39 PM CST
Veteran actress Hema Malini recently revisited her long association with Amitabh Bachchan during a special episode of Indian Idol 16 , which celebrated 60 years of her film career. Looking back at their collaborations, she praised the veteran actor's professionalism and commitment to every role.
Recalling films such as 'Naseeb', 'Satte Pe Satta', and ' Baghban ', Hema described Amitabh as someone who balanced intense preparation with a cheerful personality. According to her, he remained light-hearted between takes and ensured the atmosphere on set stayed lively with his humour.
Hema Malini says Big B was so quiet on the sets
Earlier in 2022, speaking to Hindustan Times about their early days together, Hema recalled that Amitabh was reserved when they first worked together. She said their conversations gradually increased as they spent more time on film sets.
She said, “The first time we were working together, he was so quiet on the sets. Then slowly we started talking. It was the time he was meeting producers and directors for work (as a newcomer), and he told me that he saw me on the sets of Abhinetri (1970), where he observed me from a distance. From then to now, we have done so many films together... It was after a small gap that I started working in Baghban. I was wondering ki main kaise kar paungi (how will I do this). I was nervous and told him about it. He told me, ‘don’t worry, I am also in the same boat as you, toh hum dono milke saath kar lenge (we will both do this together)’.” The actress said Amitabh's encouragement helped ease her nervousness before beginning work on Baghban.
Hema Malini praises Amitabh Bachchan's personality
Hema also spoke about Amitabh's personality away from the camera. She said that despite decades of fame and success, she has never noticed a major change in him. According to the actress, his presence alone would lift the mood on the set, and he continued to surprise everyone with his playful nature. She added, “As an individual, he has garnered so much respect, affection and adoration, yet he’s still the same. I don’t find any change in him. His hair might have turned grey, but nothing’s changed. He is still very naughty, mischievous, and sometimes serious and grumpy. He changes the mood on the sets with his entry and persona. I really feel fortunate that I have worked with him in so many beautiful films and I will always cherish the great box office hits we have given together.”
'Baghban' remains a memorable collaboration
Among the many films they worked on together, 'Baghban' remains one of their most celebrated collaborations. Directed by Ravi Chopra, the 2003 family drama revolved around Raj and Pooja, an elderly couple whose lives change after retirement when their children refuse to care for them. The film earned appreciation for its emotional storyline and the performances of its lead cast. It also featured Salman Khan in a key role and went on to become a commercial success.
Over the years, Hema Malini and Amitabh Bachchan have appeared together in several successful films across different genres.
Recalling films such as 'Naseeb', 'Satte Pe Satta', and ' Baghban ', Hema described Amitabh as someone who balanced intense preparation with a cheerful personality. According to her, he remained light-hearted between takes and ensured the atmosphere on set stayed lively with his humour.
Hema Malini says Big B was so quiet on the sets
Earlier in 2022, speaking to Hindustan Times about their early days together, Hema recalled that Amitabh was reserved when they first worked together. She said their conversations gradually increased as they spent more time on film sets.
She said, “The first time we were working together, he was so quiet on the sets. Then slowly we started talking. It was the time he was meeting producers and directors for work (as a newcomer), and he told me that he saw me on the sets of Abhinetri (1970), where he observed me from a distance. From then to now, we have done so many films together... It was after a small gap that I started working in Baghban. I was wondering ki main kaise kar paungi (how will I do this). I was nervous and told him about it. He told me, ‘don’t worry, I am also in the same boat as you, toh hum dono milke saath kar lenge (we will both do this together)’.” The actress said Amitabh's encouragement helped ease her nervousness before beginning work on Baghban.
Hema Malini praises Amitabh Bachchan's personality
Hema also spoke about Amitabh's personality away from the camera. She said that despite decades of fame and success, she has never noticed a major change in him. According to the actress, his presence alone would lift the mood on the set, and he continued to surprise everyone with his playful nature. She added, “As an individual, he has garnered so much respect, affection and adoration, yet he’s still the same. I don’t find any change in him. His hair might have turned grey, but nothing’s changed. He is still very naughty, mischievous, and sometimes serious and grumpy. He changes the mood on the sets with his entry and persona. I really feel fortunate that I have worked with him in so many beautiful films and I will always cherish the great box office hits we have given together.”
'Baghban' remains a memorable collaboration
Among the many films they worked on together, 'Baghban' remains one of their most celebrated collaborations. Directed by Ravi Chopra, the 2003 family drama revolved around Raj and Pooja, an elderly couple whose lives change after retirement when their children refuse to care for them. The film earned appreciation for its emotional storyline and the performances of its lead cast. It also featured Salman Khan in a key role and went on to become a commercial success.
Over the years, Hema Malini and Amitabh Bachchan have appeared together in several successful films across different genres.
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