The Untold Story of Amitabh Bachchan’s Sikh Connection: Revealed on National Television
In the latest season of Kaun Banega Crorepati, Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan has shared a compelling personal detail with viewers: he is of partial Sikh heritage.
Legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan, celebrated for his seminal role in the blockbuster film Kalki 2898 AD, has graced the small screen once more with the latest season of his highly acclaimed quiz show, Kaun Banega Crorepati. The 16th season of the show has recently commenced, once again showcasing Bachchan’s magnetic presence and incisive wit.
In a recent episode, Amitabh Bachchan made a revealing personal disclosure that has captured the public’s interest: he is of partial Sikh heritage. This revelation has prompted a deeper exploration into his familial background, offering a richer understanding of the actor’s personal history.
Teji Bachchan - mother of Amitabh Bachchan, at her residence in Lyallpur (Now Faisalabad)
Teji was born into a Punjabi Sikh family in Lyallpur in 1914. Her full name was Tejwant Kaur Sandhu. After completing her education, she started teaching psychology at Khoob Chand Degree… pic.twitter.com/qG34VKTOju
Amitabh’s maternal lineage provides the basis for his Sikh identity. His mother, Teji Bachchan, was of Sikh heritage, and her familial connections extended to the political sphere, notably maintaining a close relationship with former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Teji Bachchan’s father, Sardar Khajan Singh, was a prominent barrister, adding to the distinguished nature of the Bachchan family’s background. Reflecting on his heritage, Amitabh Bachchan shared on the show, “I’d like to reveal something personal. As you may know, I am half-Sikh. My mother was Sikh.” It is worth noting that Teji Bachchan passed away on December 21, 2007, marking the end of an era for the family.
Teji Bachchan, mother of the great Indian film star @SrBachchan Mr Amitabh Bachchan, at her residence in Lyallpur (Now Faisalabad) Pakistan.
Teji was Born into a Punjabi Sikh family in Lyallpur in 1914, her name was Tejwant Kaur Sandhu. After completing her education, she took a… pic.twitter.com/5IuOyoqQFD
In a poignant tribute to his heritage, Amitabh Bachchan posted a collage on his Facebook account on June 23, 2019. The image featured his late grandfather, Sardar Khajan Singh, alongside Amitabh and his son, Abhishek Bachchan, both dressed in Sikh attire. The caption read, “My... grandfather... Sardar Khajan Singh Suri... with my son,” underscoring the enduring legacy of his maternal lineage.
Amitabh Bachchan’s father, Harivansh Rai Bachchan, was a revered Hindi poet and adhered to Hinduism. His passing on January 18, 2003, marked a significant loss to the literary world and the Bachchan family.