Do you know Amitabh Bachchan did his makeup artist’s Bhojpuri film for free? Manoj Tiwari’s disclosure

One of India’s most famous and respected actors, Amitabh Bachchan has made his mark in hundreds of Hindi films. Along with this, he has also achieved recognition in Bhojpuri cinema. In the early 2000s, Bachchan appeared in a Bhojpuri film, Gangaa, which was created by his make-up artist Deepak Sawant.

Bhojpuri industry’s famous personality Ravi Kishan was also a part of this film. However, in a recent interview, Manoj Tiwari, who also had a role in the film, revealed that Bachchan had not asked for any remuneration for his participation.

According to Tiwari, during the final days of the shoot, he received a surprise phone call from Bachchan himself, who requested him to be a part of the film. Tiwari was taken aback by the gesture as Bachchan was already an established star and did not need to work without pay. However, Bachchan expressed his desire to support his friend Deepak Sawant and voluntarily agreed to be a part of the film without any compensation.

Tiwari further explained that the film was initially conceived with the intention of selling it at a high price. The producers believed that adding the star power of Bachchan to the project would make it more marketable. Bachchan willingly agreed to be a part of the film, despite not being required to do so, as he wanted to support his friend. His decision to assist in this way stemmed from his desire to help Sawant achieve his goals.

Tiwari recalled, Amitabh child called me. It was a big day for me. Amit ji called me and said Manoj give us two days time. His make-up artist Deepak Sawant was producing this film. Then I thought why Amitabh Bachchan is calling me? For 10-12 days I was confused because actually it was my dream to meet Amitabh Bachchan and when he was standing in front of me, I was just looking at him.

Manoj Tiwari praised the “greatness” of Amitabh Bachchan in agreeing to act in the Bhojpuri film Gangaa. Tiwari emphasized that Bachchan’s decision to be a part of the film was motivated by his desire to support his make-up artist Deepak Sawant, rather than personal gain. Bachchan volunteered to participate in the film without receiving any payment for his role, demonstrating his generous and selfless nature.

During that period, Bhojpuri films were usually made on a budget of around Rs 1.5 crore, and the makers’ earnings ranged from Rs 7–10 crore. Deepak Sawant, who was working as a make-up artist, hired Amitabh Bachchan to direct the film. Being aware of the commercial potential of the project, Bachchan decided not to charge any fee for his participation.

Nagma and Hema Malini were also part of the film Gangaa.

Read also: Was Hema Malini almost saying no to Amitabh Bachchan starrer Baghban because of this?