Bachchan Says He Is "Not Aware" Of FTII Students' Strike

Amitabh Bachchan's proximity with the ruling government is fairly well-known but it was shocking to witness the veteran star's staunch silence on the controversy surrounding one of the country's finest film schools, the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII).

After Ranbir Kapoor came out in support of the students who are protesting against BJP MP Gajendra Chauhan's appointment as FTII's Chairperson 
( Ranbir: FTII students need an aspirational figure as Chariman, July 9), Big B was asked about his opinion on the subject today at an event where he was present to unveil the Piku DVD.

One expects a legend of his stature to speak out on a burning issue such as this. Shockingly, all he said was, "I'm not aware of the issue," before hurriedly passing on the microphone.

That's unusual. After all, Big B has always been well-informed about the goings-on. Or did he not want to get involved in a situation that could have political implications?

As for the protest, here's what it is.

In its 28th day, the strike continues to make news because the students of the prestigious institute do not want Chauhan for the post. They are of the opinion that he isn't apt for the chair. A reasonable argument since Chauhan is a politician who's acted in films that are best forgotten.

On the other hand, FTII has seen luminaries like Shyam Benegal, Girish Karnad, Mukesh Khanna amongst others who've previously occupied office.

Ironically, Bachchan's remark came minutes after he praised Piku's writer Juhi Chaturvedi and gave a long monologue on the need for good writers in the Hindi film industry.

Let's not forget, Big B's wife Jaya Bachchan has been an alumnus of FTII.