27th November 2009 … my Father’s birthday … 102 years. A small prayer and a thought for him early in the morning as I leave for Lonavala to attend to commitments of the Bigg Boss and through out the day he remains in my mind and body. Apart from the regular protocol at the sets of BB3, there is sufficient talk of PAA and how it can be incorporated in the day’s events. But that is the film. What of the real Pa ?

To those that get evicted there is a strain of thought that weighs heavily with father son relationships. Of relationships that went wrong and that would never repair. Of despair and remorse within those that have through some unfortunate reason, been ignored or not had opportunity for attention from their peers. It is a sad moment and one that I would sincerely wish never occurs in any of our lives. But it does at times and it is for those times that one advises and prepares the subject. Not all advice makes sense. Not all advise is readily adhered to and complied with. There is an independence in attitude as one grows into the world. The freedom from being stifled into submission. It is almost childlike. But seek not an excuse for insipid behaviour. Remember always, that we shall ever remain a child ; uncertain, unsteady, imbalanced in the eyes of our elders. We can either accept this situation as a blessing or a curse.

Many among you would like to set off independently, without the encumbrances of being looked after. Many still cherish the overwhelming feel of being always in the cover of the elders. These are inverse callings and need a separate vision or opinion. I may love the presence of my peers amongst myself, others may not. Our circumstances may be different. But that does not mean there is a diminishing of feeling for the elders. I do believe that no matter what our circumstances, no matter what our desires, there is somewhere within us the need to express and believe, that what we express is right, even though they may be run over by disagreement.

I do believe in the strength of family and its many facetted decorated tributaries. Through generations and time, ideas and opinions may change, but somewhere that basic culture has remained and shall continue to remain. There is no greater emotion than the love and affection that togetherness brings. Just being together, even when nothing may be done shall give enough strength to sustain.

There are endless stories of separation, but understand that the ones that talk of togetherness are much greater. I may leave a situation where misunderstandings develop, but will those feelings ever change that encourage me to come together. Never.

And so I live in hope and goodness. Hope, to remain away from the evils, and the goodness to make sure it prevails.

Shweta comes down to participate in tomorrows function. I have driven back from Lonavala after BB3 is over for the week, but the thought of seeing the daughter again allows me the reserve to go to the airport and fetch her. But as we wait, in a somewhat secluded environment, she quietly slips in and the house is alive again. Before we leave back from the airport, a huddle of people and the limitless desire for that ‘one bite’ is somewhat threateningly occupying the form of our hero Srisanth the cricketer whos’s tremendous effort won us the match match between India and Sri Lanka, by an innings and some 114 runs. That is massive.

Srisanth pulls along by the side of my car, notices me and jumps out to acknowledge the evening. I am meeting him after a long gap - we last met at the IIFA’s in Macau. He is humble and calm and full of energy and I congratulate him and his efforts. He is most unlike the aggression he displays on the pitch. But are we not all, in possession of such gifts. Think about it.

And think it out loud so I may be able to hear it even when I am gone for the moment …

Love to you and much much more …

Amitabh Bachchan