Filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra made headlines in 2007 when he gifted Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan a Rolls-Royce Phantom worth Rs 4.5 crore as a token of gratitude after the completion of Eklavya: The Royal Guard. While the generous gesture made waves in the media, it wasn’t well-received by everyone—particularly Chopra’s mother, who scolded him and even called him “bewakoof” (stupid).

Why the Gift?

In a previous interview with Siddharth Kannan, Chopra shared a memorable moment from the making of Eklavya: The Royal Guard. When Amitabh arrived on set, he brought very little luggage. Chopra asked the reason, and Amitabh humorously replied, “Jaya told me that I wouldn’t be able to stand you for more than a week.”

Chopra further explained, “We actually started fighting after a week or 10 days, but he stayed on and completed the film. I gifted him a car worth Rs 4.5 crore because he tolerated me. It was really humbling for a star of his stature to put up with me; it was big of him.”

Mother’s Reaction: ‘Lamboo Nu Gaadi Dedi?’

Chopra recalled the most unforgettable part of the incident when he took his mother with him to present the car to Amitabh. After handing over the keys to the superstar, Chopra’s mother came back and sat in Chopra’s humble blue Maruti van. She then casually referred to Amitabh as “Lamboo” and questioned, “Tu Lamboo nu gaadi dedi?” Chopra, with a chuckle, replied, “Haan,” to which she asked, “Tu khud kyun nahi leta gaadi?” Chopra explained that he would buy a car when the time was right. His mother, unaware of the car’s price, responded with, “11 lakh ki toh hogi.”

When Chopra revealed that the car was worth Rs 4.5 crore, his mother slapped him and called him “bewakoof.” Chopra fondly remembers the incident, emphasizing, “What is money if it can’t give you joy?”

All About the Rolls-Royce Phantom

The Rolls-Royce Phantom, introduced in 1925, remains one of the most iconic and luxurious cars in the world. Often considered the crown jewel of Rolls-Royce’s lineup, the Phantom is renowned for its powerful performance, exquisite craftsmanship, and unparalleled comfort.

• Engine and Performance:
  The Phantom is powered by a 6.75-litre twin-turbo V12 engine, delivering 570 PS and 900 Nm of torque. It features a smooth automatic gearbox, making it an effortless drive whether navigating city traffic or cruising on highways.
• Interior and Craftsmanship:
  The interior of the Phantom is a masterpiece, with hand-stitched leather, handcrafted wood veneers, and fully customizable options. It includes the signature “Gallery” dashboard, which allows owners to display unique artwork.
• Technology:
  The Phantom is equipped with advanced tech such as a high-resolution head-up display, 360-degree camera system, night vision, Wi-Fi hotspot, and various driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control.
• Ride and Comfort:
  Renowned for its ride quality, the Phantom boasts an advanced suspension system, adaptive dampers, and active anti-roll bars, offering smooth handling at both low and high speeds. The focus is on delivering a serene and controlled ride.
• Soundproof Cabin:
  The cabin is meticulously soundproofed with dual-layer, 6mm-thick windows and extensive insulation, ensuring the utmost quiet and comfort.

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