Actor Abhishek Bachchan has lent his voice to recite some couplets in Esha Deol Takhtani's comeback film Ek Duaa (2021), directed by Ram Kamal Mukherjee.
The film has been produced by Takhtani’s own production house Bharat Esha Films, formed recently in association with her husband Bharat Takhtani.
The couplets recited by Bachchan and penned by Shonet Barretto come at a crucial point in the film dealing with issues of gender inequality and other evil practices thriving in the patriarchal system.
Ek Duaa also features Rajveer Ankur Singh, Barbie Sharma and Sunita Shirole in crucial roles.
“When director Ram Kamal Mukherjee approached me for this voice-over for my friend Esha’s film, that is also her first production; I was happy to be a part of it because this film speaks about gender inequalities that still exist in our society,” Bachchan said.
As the father of a daughter, the actor said, “We must educate our society and spread awareness through whatever medium we can. Esha and Ram are trying to give out a positive message through their film.”
Bachchan said he was deeply touched by the couplets, written by Barretto, and hoped the audience would be touched by the film as well.
“Abhishek has been a buddy over the years and a great co-star," Esha Deol Takhtani said. "I have always admired the way he shows respect towards women. He is a complete gentleman.
“We have always supported and encouraged each other’s work. I was very happy and grateful that he agreed to lend his voice for my maiden production,” she added.
The director was delighted that Bachchan not only recorded the poem like a thorough professional, but also participated in the making of the film like a team member.
“I remember when we handed over the poem, he read it a couple of times, set punctuations and modulated it with his versatile voice," Mukherjee said. "It makes me happy that he agreed to be a part of this humble journey.”
The Voot Select platform is currently streaming Ek Duaa.