On June 23, 2025, Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan, aged 82, silenced online trolls on X who mocked his voice in a government-mandated cybercrime awareness caller tune, heard before every call in India. The tune, launched by the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C), aims to educate citizens about digital frauds. Why did trolls target him? Many found the 40-second message repetitive and disruptive. How did Bachchan respond? With sharp, classy retorts that went viral, showcasing his commitment to public service and age-defying wit.
In This Article:
The Caller Tune Controversy
Bachchan’s voice in the I4C campaign warns against phishing, OTP scams, and fake links, playing before all calls to promote digital safety. Despite its intent, users on X complained about its frequency, calling it “annoying” . One troll wrote, “Toh phone pe bolna band kro bhay (Stop talking on the phone),” prompting Bachchan’s iconic reply: “Sarkar ko bolo bhai, unhone jo kaha humne kar diya (Tell the government, I did what they asked)” . Another user age-shamed him, saying, “Buddha sathiya gaya hai (The old man’s gone senile),” to which he quipped, “Ek din, Bhagwan na kare, jab aap bhi sathiya jaaye… jo satha, wo patha (One day, God forbid, you’ll age too—the older, the wiser)” .
Bachchan’s Savage Comebacks
When accused of being “high on weed,” Bachchan retorted, “Only someone high on weed could write like you did” . Another troll mocked his “attitude,” comparing it to a faulty calculator, earning the reply, “Even your calculator says you’re overthinking!” . These responses, rooted in humor and wisdom.
A Commitment to Cyber Safety
Bachchan joined the I4C campaign in 2024 at Home Minister Amit Shah’s request, amplifying its reach . Despite public frustration, with 70% of X users finding the tune intrusive, Bachchan’s role underscores his social responsibility. His retorts remind critics that he’s a messenger, not the policymaker.
Cultural Impact
Bachchan’s viral replies highlight his enduring charisma and ability to connect across generations. As he gears up for Kalki 2898 AD: Part 2 and Ramayana, his online savviness proves age is no barrier to cultural relevance, inspiring fans to value wit over negativity.
-By Manoj H