In a moment that felt both long overdue and deeply emotional, Abhishek Bachchan accepted his first Filmfare Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role, celebrating a significant milestone 25 years into his film career. His victory for Shoojit Sircar’s ‘I Want To Talk,’ in which he portrays Arjun Sen, an NRI in the USA facing a life-changing surgery, was celebrated with a standing ovation, and notably, the actor was moved to tears. Overwhelmed on stage, Abhishek reflected on his journey, stating, “This year marks 25 years in the film industry, and I cannot remember how many times I’ve practiced a speech for this award. It’s been a dream, and I’m just so touched and humbled.
Receiving it in front of my family makes it even more special.” He expressed his gratitude to his colleagues and mentors, saying, “To all the directors and producers who have worked with me, believed in me, and given me opportunities over the past 25 years, it’s not been easy, but it has definitely been worth it.” Abhishek dedicated the award to his wife and daughter, adding, “To Aishwarya and Aaradhya, thank you for allowing me to go out and follow my dreams. I hope that by winning this award, they see that their sacrifices have been one of the main reasons I stand here today.
I want to dedicate this award to two very special people, my hero, my father, and my other hero, my daughter.” Abhishek’s Bollywood journey has been unconventional. Over the past quarter-century, he has established a career marked by versatility and bold choices. From the intense, youthful politics of Yuva to the nuanced ambition of Guru, and from the understated charm of Manmarziyaan to the thriller Bob Biswas and the socially aware Dasvi, he has consistently explored a wide array of characters and genres. Each performance showcases his willingness to push beyond comfort zones, often challenging both himself and audience expectations.
Directed by Shoojit Sircar, ‘I Want To Talk’ features Abhishek in one of his most complex and heartfelt portrayals, that of a father facing mortality while striving to reconnect with his daughter.