Tummy troubles roil India
'Kaun's' soph season canceled due to Bachchan's ailment
Ever since Bachchan, 63, went into the hospital with an intestinal disorder last fall, his producers have been awaiting his recovery to complete several films.
Also waiting are eight commercials, while a second season of the hit Hindi-language version of "Millionaire," Star TV's "Kaun banega crorepati" has been canceled.
Bachchan, one of Bollywood's biggest box office draws and busiest stars before his illness, starred in four of the top grossers of 2005 -- "Black," "Waqt" (Time), "Sarkar" (Godfather) and "Bunty aur Babli" (Bunty and Babli) -- that raked in excess of $22.3 million of the year's $29.8 million profits.
According to the Financial Express, in 2005 alone $68 million was invested in Bachchan's held-up projects, include BR Films' "Baabul" (Father), Vidhu Vinod Chopra's "Eklavya" and Dharma Prods.' "Kabhi alvida naa kehena" (Never Say Goodbye).
In pre-production are Ram Gopal Varma's "Sarkar 2," sequel to last year's moneyspinner, and his remake of 1975's "Sholay" (Flames), which also starred Bachchan.
"Baabul" director Ravi Chopra says, "Since Bachchan plays the title role, the film's completion depends on his return. The release is postponed from May." The $5.4 million pic now is skedded for an August opening.
Vishal Patel, head of marketing and distribution for Dharma Prods., says the release of "Kabhi alvida naa kehena" will be delayed to August. "As far as we are concerned, the film has only one song that requires Bachchan's presence. Since we expect him to be back and shooting in July, we are OK."
But others are not so lucky. "Kaun banega crorepati's" second season was delayed and then canceled because host Bachchan is unable to resume taping.
While there are other Bollywood stars and not everything Bachchan touches turns to gold, his illness has galvanized his fans in this movie-mad nation.
On Nov. 30, Bachchan was admitted to Mumbai's Lilavati Hospital with abdominal pains.
He was diagnosed with diverticulitis of the small intestine. Complications stemmed from an earlier injury from a stunt during the shooting of 1982's "Coolie" (Porter). Bachchan also has the neurological disorder myasthenia gravis.
Bachchan's subsequent three-week hospitalization saw hordes of fans and well-wishers gathering at the hospital. His illness and the outpouring of fan support until his December release from hospital made primetime news. Prayers, acts of penance and religious services were offered across the country for his well-being.
"I love being in front of the camera," Bachchan told Variety last year. "I will do it as long my body wills it."
Looks like his body is asking for a break.
