From ‘Dekh Bhai Dekh’ to Chaotic Live Broadcasts: Shekhar Suman Reflects on His Deep Ties with the Bachchans
Renowned actor and television personality Shekhar Suman recently took a trip down memory lane, offering a candid glimpse into his early career and his multifaceted professional relationship with the power couple of Indian cinema, Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan. From the birth of a cult classic sitcom to the chaotic realities of live broadcasting, Suman’s reflections highlight a blend of rewarding creative collaborations and technical mishaps.
The ‘Dekh Bhai Dekh’ Connection
Suman’s transition into television was not initially part of his plan. Having already made a mark in Bollywood with his debut in Utsav, the actor was wary of the perceived stigma associated with television projects in the early 90s.
"I got a call one day from director Aanand Mahendroo, who said he was making a serial called Dekh Bhai Dekh. I told him I wasn’t interested in serials," Suman recalled during an appearance on SCREEN Spotlight. The tide turned, however, the moment the production house was mentioned. "Then he said, ‘It’s produced by Jaya Bachchan.’ So, I said, ‘Hold on!’ If Jaya Bachchan is backing it, and it’s an Amitabh Bachchan production, I’d have a look at it."
The sitcom, which became an iconic staple of 90s Indian television, benefited greatly from Jaya Bachchan’s hands-on approach. Suman noted that she was far more than a nominal producer, frequently visiting the sets and taking an active, encouraging interest in the performances. "She was completely hands-on. She’d come on the set and supervise. She took personal interest in it, which was very encouraging to see. She’d laugh her guts out at all kinds of idiosyncrasies we’d do," he added.
A “Huge Disaster” at the National Awards
Beyond the success of Dekh Bhai Dekh, Suman’s collaboration with the Bachchans extended to the prestigious National Awards. Tasked with hosting the first-ever live broadcast of the ceremony, the experience proved to be a baptism by fire.
Suman candidly described the event as a “huge disaster.” The ambitious production was marred by a catastrophic electrical failure, which led to absolute bedlam behind the scenes. In a humorous recollection of the chaos, he revealed, "There was an electrical failure, and there were abuses going around in the OB (Outside Broadcast) van, which were being broadcast!"
Despite the technical nightmare, the experience fostered a unique creative bond. During this period, Suman spent significant time at the Bachchans’ residence in Delhi’s Gulmohar Park. "We’d sit at their house and shekhar suman recalls ideating for hours," he shared, underscoring the deep respect and professional camaraderie he shared with the legendary duo.
The Road Ahead
Shekhar Suman’s career remains as dynamic as ever. After his recent appearance in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s critically acclaimed Heeramandi, he continues to explore new creative avenues. Beyond acting, he has launched a YouTube talk show, Shekhar Tonite, and has expanded into the field of education. His recently established Shekhar Suman Film Academy aims to mentor the next generation of actors, providing them with a contemporary curriculum to navigate the evolving entertainment landscape.
