The Lifelong Friendship Between Amitabh Bachchan and Rajiv Gandhi: A Story of Personal Bond and Political Transition

Amitabh Bachchan, the legendary actor, and Rajiv Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India, shared a profound connection that spanned several decades. This article delves into their friendship, events leading to their separation, and the commemorations surrounding Rajiv Gandhi's funeral.

Early Connection and Personal Bond

Hailing from prominent families in Allahabad, India, Amitabh Bachchan and Rajiv Gandhi's families were deeply intertwined. Beginning in the 1980s, they formed a close bond that was strengthened by their shared history and mutual respect.

Family Ties and Childhood Friendships

Almost half a century ago, their families had a longstanding relationship. Harivanshi Rai Bachchan, Amitabh's father, was a Hindi officer in the Indian Foreign Ministry. He and Jawaharlal Nehru enjoyed a close relationship, while Amitabh's mother, Tej Bachchan, had a close bond with Indira Gandhi. This familial connection laid the foundation for Amitabh and Rajiv's early friendship.

Recalling in 1983, Harivanshi stated in Society Magazine, We are close to the Gandhi family but our relationship is personal and not political. I only say that the Gandhis and Bachchans are friends. We are together in joy and sorrow. This statement encapsulates the deep-rooted personal bond between the two families.

Early Encounters and Bonding

When Rajiv Gandhi was two years old, and 4 years old, respectively, their first encounter was at a fancy dress party on Bank Road, Bachchan’s residence in Allahabad. Rajiv had donned a freedom fighter costume, and both children often swam together at the swimming pool of Rashtrapati Bhawan. These early experiences solidified a friendship that would last a lifetime.

Early Political Involvement and Gliding Adventures

Amitabh's connection with Rajiv extended beyond personal relationships. He would occasionally accompany Rajiv to the Delhi Flying Club for gliding adventures, spending hours there. Their shared passion for flying further strengthened their bond. They even shared close quarters when Indira Gandhi became Prime Minister; her family moved to 1 Safdarjung Road, close to Amitabh's home at 13 Willington Crescent. Together, Amitabh, Rajiv, Ajitabh, and Sanjay formed a tightly-knit group of friendships.

The Bofors Scandal and its Impact on Their Friendship

Amitabh Bachchan's political career took a dramatic turn in 1984 when he faced allegations of involvement in the Bofors Scandal. Despite joining politics on the basis of his close bond with Rajiv and his family, this scandal tarnished his image and deteriorated their friendship.

Decision to Join Politics and the Bofors Scandal

On its surface, Amitabh's decision to contest from Allahabad in the 1984 elections was to help a friend. He won with a record margin of 68.2%. However, it soon became apparent that he did not enjoy the political life. The Bofors Scandal, involving allegations of bribery and arms deal corruption, took a heavy toll on his political career. In 1987, Amitabh resigned from his constituency.

While personal stories suggest that Amitabh's friendship with Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi survived the Bofors scandal, the official records of their interaction after 1987 are sparse. The scandal, however, marked the end of their close political connection, effectively severing the once vibrant bond between them.

Amitabh's Absence from Rajiv's Funeral

Following Rajiv Gandhi's assassination in 1991, there was speculation about Amitabh Bachchan's absence from the funeral. However, it was reported that he did not attend due to conflicting commitments. His absence did not imply a lack of connection, but rather a respectful decision to honor Rajiv in his own way. Later, he expressed his grief and acknowledged their friendship.

Role of Jaya Bachchan and Sonia Gandhi

Jaya Bachchan, Amitabh's wife, and Rajiv's mother, had a friendly rapport. As Jaya's relationship with Rajiv was well-established, it further solidified the bond between Amitabh and Rajiv. Similarly, Jaya's sister, Sonia Gandhi, who eventually became India's Prime Minister, stayed with the Bachchan family before her marriage to Rajiv, further cementing their familial connections.

Conclusion

The relationship between Amitabh Bachchan and Rajiv Gandhi was a significant chapter in Indian history. From childhood friends to symbolically connected through familial ties, their lives intertwine another layer of personal and political complexity. Although the scandal led to a permanent rift in their official relationship, their enduring bond is a testament to the depth of the personal connections that existed beyond mere political affiliations.