Mukesh Khanna reflects on Amitabh Bachchan’s alleged remark on him: 'Saala copy karta hai'

Mukesh Khanna and Big B (File Photo)

Mukesh Khanna recently opened up about a comment allegedly made by Amitabh Bachchan that left a lasting impression on him. In an interview with Hindi Rush, Mukesh revealed that Big B's remark, passed through a mutual friend, accused him of imitating the superstar's style.

Recalling the incident, Mukesh shared that the comment arose from an advertisement he featured in, where he wore perfume and caught the attention of women. According to Mukesh, a friend of Amitabh Bachchan overheard the superstar remarking, “Saala copy karta hai” (He’s copying me). Mukesh admitted that the statement stayed with him but dismissed it as a misunderstanding. “You can call me self-respecting or stubborn, but I thought, ‘Pagal hai tu, woh aisa bolenge? (Are you mad? Do you think he’d say this?)’” Mukesh recounted.

The actor also reflected on how the media sensationalised the anecdote, with some suggesting that Amitabh’s alleged comment “finished” Mukesh’s career. Mukesh firmly dismissed these claims, labeling them as “nonsensical.” He clarified, “We never worked together, but to say that Amitabh Bachchan finished my career is absurd.” He noted that journalists often tried to provoke him, asking if the superstar had sabotaged his career, but Mukesh brushed off such suggestions with humour and pragmatism.

Mukesh further elaborated that his career trajectory had nothing to do with Amitabh. “I starred in only a few films because I signed nly a few films,” he explained, emphasising that his roles in Mahabharat and Shaktimaan* were entirely independent of any outside influence.

Interestingly, Mukesh mentioned that he has met Amitabh Bachchan multiple times since the incident, including a cordial interaction during a flight from London to India. Despite their occasional meetings, the two never discussed the alleged remark.