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Big B’s birthday celebs centre around prominent Bachchan's statue in New Jersey, US
Listed as a tourist attraction on Google Maps, the statue continues to draw Bollywood enthusiasts daily, making it a symbol of Bachchan’s enduring global appeal.
Indian-American Gopi Sheth with his wife and other fans. / Courtesy Photo
A statue of Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan outside the New Jersey home of a lifelong admirer was the centre of attraction for his American fans on his 82nd birthday on Oct. 11, 2024.
The birthday function was held outside the Edison, New Jersey home of the Bachchanfan, Gopi Seth, and his family.
It was the pinnacle of Seth’s life-long admiration for the Indian thespian to have his statue installed in 2022.
There were a string of celebrations including cake-cutting, dancing to popular Bachchan songs and re-enacting dramatic scenes from his movies.
Fans from across the United States, many dressed in Amitabh Bachchan-themed outfits, traveled to Edison for the occasion.
The area around the statue was adorned with banners, lights, and posters celebrating Bachchan’s illustrious career.
The evening ended with a fireworks display, as fans sang and danced to classic hits from films like Sholay, Don, and Amar Akbar Anthony.
Fans posing with the statue. / Courtesy photoThe cake, specially designed for the occasion, was organized by Albert Jasani, who also took charge of the event's food and decorations. “This evening will be unforgettable for everyone present,” he said, reflecting on the joy and enthusiasm of the crowd.
A Global tribute to a legendary actor
Gopi Sheth, who commissioned the statue, expressed his deep admiration for Bachchan, saying, “This birthday celebration was a heartfelt gift to Bachchan. Seeing so many of his fans come together at our home to celebrate his life and legacy was truly inspiring. We never imagined that our tribute to him would make our home a renowned tourist destination, now recognized globally as a symbol of his immense popularity.”
Sheth’s statue of Amitabh Bachchan, installed in 2022, has since become a cultural landmark in Edison, with fans from across the world visiting to pay their respects to the actor.
Fans posing with the statue. / Courtesy Photo
Listed as a tourist attraction on Google Maps, it continues to draw Bollywood enthusiasts daily, making it a symbol of Bachchan’s enduring global appeal.
From childhood fan to lifelong devotee
Sheth’s connection with Amitabh Bachchan began during his school days when, as a fourth grader, he first performed the famous song Khaike Paan Banaras Wala number. His admiration only deepened over the years, leading him to found the Big B Fan Club and eventually meet the legendary actor at the Great Gatsby red carpet event in 2013.
Reflecting on this journey, Sheth said, “My admiration for Bachchan goes beyond his films; it’s his charisma, humility, and dedication that have always inspired me. From watching him on screen to having the privilege of meeting him and now honoring him with this statue, it’s been a journey of love, respect, and deep admiration.”
Despite facing legal and logistical challenges, Sheth successfully installed the life-size statue two years ago. The unveiling, attended by more than 600 fans, was a moment of great pride for Sheth and the Indian-American community in Edison. The tribute even garnered a personal message from Bachchan himself, who expressed his gratitude and humility.
A symbol of inspiration for fans worldwide
Today, the statue stands as a beacon for fans around the globe, drawing visitors from various walks of life who gather to celebrate the achievements of one of cinema’s greatest legends. The 82nd birthday celebration solidified its place as a global landmark, with fans from all over the world joining in the festivities.
Sheth continues to share video clips of visitors with Bachchan, humbled by the growing popularity of the tribute. “This statue has become a hub of love and admiration for Bachchan. To witness people from different walks of life come together to honor his legacy fills my heart with pride and gratitude,” Sheth remarked.
The event was more than just a birthday celebration; it was a testament to the unbreakable bond between a cinematic legend and his devoted fans, led by one of his most passionate admirers, Gopi Sheth.
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