Bhopal Will Always Be Special to Me: Abhishek Bachchan Shares His Sentiments

Abhishek Bachchan, director Madhumita, and Bhopal’s own Daivik Bhagela lit up the City of Lakes as they returned to promote their upcoming ZEE5 original film, Kaalidhar Laapata, premiering July 4th. The team gathered at the iconic Upper Lake, where they released floating diyas that illuminated the film’s title—a moving tribute to the city and its spirit. Their visit was especially meaningful for Daivik, who makes his film debut opposite Abhishek after years on Bhopal’s theatre stages, with support from Dr. Ilayaraja T (IAS), Secretary to the Chief Minister and Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh State Tourism.

On his visit to Bhopal, Abhishek Bachchan said, “Coming back to Bhopal is always deeply personal for me. It’s not just a city I’ve filmed in—it feels like home and so many of my childhood memories are woven into its streets. Shooting Kaalidhar Laapata in Bhopal brought all of that flooding back. Now, returning for the film’s promotions has been just as special. One of the standout moments was the photo-op by the Bhopal Lake—a powerful gesture that captures the essence of Kaalidhar Laapata. As hundreds of diyas lit up the water, it became a moving visual metaphor for what the film stands for: finding light in the most unlikely places, forming unexpected connections, and embracing life wholeheartedly, no matter where you are in your journey. That’s the soul of this story, and I hope it truly connects with everyone who watches it.”

Produced by Zee Studios and Emmay Entertainment, Kaalidhar Laapata tells the poignant story of a middle-aged man (Abhishek Bachchan) facing memory loss and abandonment, who finds unexpected companionship with Ballu (Daivik Bhagela), a spirited 8-year-old orphan. Together, they embark on a journey of forgotten dreams and newfound hope, exploring themes of family, resilience, and the quiet power of second chances.