Amitabh Bachchan's Spiritual Journey: A Hindu Devotee or a Celebrity God?

Amitabh Bachchan, one of the most prominent figures in Bollywood, leads a life intertwined with spirituality. While fame and accolades have brought him a significant place in the hearts of many, his spiritual journey is a more nuanced topic. This article explores his beliefs, religious practices, and the impact of the growing trend of treating celebrities as divine figures.

Deep Spirituality in a Modern Life

Amitabh Bachchan, though he embodies the movie star persona, has a deep-seated spirituality that reflects his Hindu beliefs. The Hindu religion, which he follows, indeed believes in the concept of rebirth. However, whether or not he firmly adheres to this belief, it is clear that his spiritual practices are an integral part of his life.

From Near Death to Devotion

His near-death experience during the filming of the film Coolie was a turning point in his life. Amidst the trauma and uncertainty, his fans and well-wishers prayed fervently for his recovery. The Mahakavi Shri S. Ramanathan, director of films like Bombay to Goa and a devout follower of Lord Ayyappa, prayed to the deity that if Bachchan recovered, he would bring him to dedicate his life to Lord Ayyappa.

Post-recovery, his journey with spirituality took a profound turn. Amitabh Bachchan chose to honor his promise and visited Shabarimalai, where he followed all the strict rules associated with austerities. For a period of 41 days, he slept on the floor, wore no slippers, ate self-cooked food, and lived by the rules of Sanyas, a path to ultimate spiritual liberation.

Continuing Spiritual Practices

Since his recovery, he has continued his visits to temples, with a particular fondness for Lord Ganesha at Siddi Vinayak Temple in Mumbai. He often visits this temple, indicating his deep devotion to the deity. On special occasions, he also makes a pilgrimage to Lord Venkateswara Temple in Thirupathi and the Golden Temple of Amritsar.

The Blunder of Worshiping Celebrities

While celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan visit temples and observe religious practices, it is also a common sight to see fans creating temples or shrines dedicated to these icons. This trend, though well-intended, can have serious spiritual consequences. Celebrities, no matter how famous, cannot be equated with the divine and are certainly not eligible for the status of deities.

Political figures and others are also guilty of converting respected individuals into divine figures, often for the sake of increasing their support bases. This practice can mislead the ignorant, who may take the devotion to a level that is harmful to their next lives.

The Urgent Need for Change

The present trend of prioritizing the material over the spiritual is a concerning reality. Despite being Hindus, many people often dismiss the concept of rebirth, failing to recognize its importance in Hinduism and Vedic religion. This attitude contradicts the very essence of these beliefs, which focus on the spiritual journey and the concept of karma and reincarnation.

It is essential for individuals, especially those in leadership positions, to guide and educate their followers about the true essence of Vedic teachings and the significance of spiritual practices. This will help promote a more balanced and spiritually fulfilling life, both in this world and the next.