One of the most trying tasks in organizing an event, if it is an invited audience, is the allocation of seats. Where ? Whom ? When ? Why ? Just an endless flow of questions that keep changing their answers every few minutes. Dealing with each request, each preference, is a job most diplomats would find difficult to handle. The end result is a nightmare operation day in and day out, right to the very last minute. There is never a fool proof situation. Forever there is the anxiety of hoping everything worked out well. And just as when you pack to leave for a longish trip, there is that feel that something has been left behind, so also in this matter.

I do believe that we have looked into all possibilities but still if there is some that remains let me say now that it is to be overlooked and excused.

There is a great joy in making personal contact with those that are invited. I feel. And so the entire last few days and the many days before that have gone in writing out letters and now connecting with the guests on mobile and text messages.

There is a sense of belonging within us. We rarely get an opportunity to be at the same location at the same time for the same cause and that I feel is our biggest longing. So when an occasion does arise and you hear and see the fraternity together one cannot but sense an emotion rising out. It is heartening to note that they all care, that they fill us with good tidings and successful cheer. Their presence somehow gives huge moral support, their blessings a value added necessity.

Shahrukh and Aamir had confirmed earlier as have Akshay and Hrithik and Ajay and Anil and Ranbir …. the Industry is such a colossal bank of talent. Dilip Saheb is unwell as are Shammi ji and Shashi ji and Dharamji … but speaking to them after such a while was a joy and an accomplishment in itself.

Dilip Saheb gracious and caring as ever. Such a joy to hear him give his characteristic laugh when I told him I was playing Abhishek’s son. The curiosity still alive and vibrant in his conversation. I would keep a separate trial for him where he does not have to worry about the crowds and the rush of the media. Dev Anand ji, just back from London and in his elements as ever, writes a note to me and sends across a bouquet of flowers. Says he will try. Its 50-50 he says, exuding exuberance as ever over the phone. Shammi ji and Shashi ji are not keeping too well. I spare them the strain of traveling all that distance, as I do with Dharam ji, who is down with a severe flu condition. But Sonny and Bobby confirm they shall be there. Vinod Khanna calls in and regrets. He is out of town, but shall catch the film later and sends wishes for success. Hema ji acknowledges and will be there as will Jeetendra … and the list goes on.

I feel blessed that those that I contacted came along to either accept or regret. I often feel I intrude on their time and circumstance, that they would never be able to take time out for the event. But I am so delighted that all that I contacted came back to me with respect and extreme grace. For me this means more than any appreciation..

I leave now for the venue to check on the work and how it is being conducted. The last show shall give over by about 12:30 AM. I have asked all the team to assemble by 1 AM. A run through of all the arrangements, trial runs of the film on the screens to check projection and correct sound. Briefing staff and the help, that shall conduct themselves on the day and what protocol they need to follow. Getting over 1600 people to follow instructions can be a night mare.

More later .. and with love

Amitabh Bachchan