Why Bachchans gave IIFA a miss
June 4, 2010 10:42 pm
Amitabh Bachchan completed a decade-long association with IIFA last year as brand ambassador. He is conspicuous by his absence at the 11th year of the event.
A statement was issued by the South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce, which said that the Southern stars and filmmakers would boycott all the Bollywood stars who would attend the event. A protest was also staged outside Bachchan residence by the same group.
Besides this also, a lot seems to be at stake for Amitabh right now. Abhishek-Aishwarya starrer and Mani Ratnam directed Raavan’s impending release is apparently another reason why he doesn’t want to ruffle too many feathers.
Incidentally, Abhishek and Aishwarya will also not be attending IIFA this year, as they are busy with their upcoming movie’s promotion.
While the absence of Bachchan clan has perturbed Salman Khan, its not the case with other people from the industry. They have taken a much diplomatic stand.
Sohail Khan says, “Everybody has their own genuine reason for not being there. Inshallah, there’s always a next year.”
Neil Nitin Mukesh spoke in support of Big B. “Bachchans will be missed at IIFA. They are like pillars of this film fest.”
Meanwhile another report states that Salman Khan has slammed Amitabh Bachchan on his absence.
Amitabh Bachchan, IIFA’s brand ambassador, has given the
extravaganza in
Salman Khan, who is the brand ambassador of IIFA’s charity
initiative, feels that Bachchan and family should have been in
Salman also highlighted the fact that Sri Lankans need help and Mr. Bachchan’s presence was important. The hunk further added, “Everyone belonging to the film industry should have attended IIFA. They could have come together to extend their help to Sri Lankans.”
Though Big B cited work commitments to cover up for his
absence from IIFA, the protests from South Indian film lobby is seen as a
reason for his non-participation this year. – (The