Bachchan on Bachchan, an enduring image

While he may have been the primary reason why virtually all the invitees turned up, as the evening progressed itwas clear that the real star of the show was the one who was not present. Harivansh Rai Bachchan8217;s poetry in turn entranced, amused and provoked.

Bachchan read out eight representative poems including Jeevan Ki Aapa-dhaapi mein; Joh raat gayi, woh baat gayi; Choti ki barf; Khoon ke chhaape; the satirical Buddha aur naach-ghar and two blank verse, 19/1/66 and Bharat ke saanp. He also read out from Richard Snell8217;s translation of Harivansh Rai Bachchan8217;s autobiography and concluded, but obviously, with Madhushala from which he sang a verse on request. Then, pleading ill-health read out the rest. For those not well-versed with the language and references he peppered the reading with English translations and anecdotes and gestures. For two hours it was symbiosis of talent with well, more talent.