I'd have bought it 25 years ago: Abhishek Bachchan on being accused of buying an award

Abhishek Bachchan recently addressed the responsibilities of journalists and his experience with criticism following his first major acting award, the Filmfare Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for 2024. While the award was a significant milestone for him after 25 years in the industry, it also brought allegations and trolling online. Bachchan responded in a recent interview, highlighting the need for accuracy and care in reporting, especially from the press.

The actor acknowledged that public opinion is expected, but he draws a line at allegations of misconduct, such as claims that he bought his award or used PR to influence the outcome. Speaking to PeepingMoon, he said, "If you read my response, what I said was: anyone can have an opinion, and today we all have a platform to express it — that's fine. My job as an actor is to listen to the audience and if something needs improvement, you bring that improvement through your work. But if you are a journalist and you are accusing me of buying an award or doing active PR, then that is wrong."

Bachchan discussed the particular responsibilities journalists have to their readership. He said, "You are a journalist, and you have certain responsibilities toward the audiences who read you." He also pointed out his deep family ties to journalism, explaining, "People also forget that I am known for my grandfather, who was an eminent poet. I have another grandfather who was also very prominent — both were journalists. So I come from a family of journalists. I have seen journalism closely from my mother’s side."

Reflecting on his understanding of journalistic ethics, Bachchan said, "Through you, I understand the ethics and the responsibilities. That's exactly why I responded." The 49-year-old made it clear that his



replies to criticism are motivated by respect for journalistic standards and a wish to correct unfounded accusations.

He also addressed why he chooses to reply directly to journalists, saying, "Many people ask, 'Why are you even replying?' I am replying because you are a journalist, and I believe you should have enough responsibility to not make accusations that are not based on truth — that are fabricated. You may have an opinion, that's fine, but you cannot accuse somebody and tarnish their name by writing something so strong without knowing the truth."

Challenging the idea that awards can simply be purchased, he commented, "Secondly, if awards can be bought — I don't know what others do. But if I could buy an award, I would have bought it 25 years ago. As you said, I have been nominated 3–4 times — I could have bought it then. If active PR could win awards, I would have done that 25 years ago. Anyone who has struggled, worked hard, and stayed dedicated — and I am not just talking about myself — it is unfair to write them off so carelessly. It's not fair. It's not nice. And this has to come to an end."

He noted the importance of boundaries between his public and private life. While grateful to his audience and rarely turning down requests for autographs or pictures, there are aspects he prefers to keep private.

Closing his remarks, Bachchan called for more sensitivity and accountability from journalists. He said, "If you are a journalist, I expect you to be highly responsible about the repercussions of what you write — sensitive as well. If you don't care about that, that's for your own conscience to live with. But from you, I expect responsibility. And I think that is lacking a bit right now, and I truly hope that changes."