Before she became part of the Bachchan family , Ramola Bachchan shared a special bond with superstar Amitabh Bachchan — one that was built purely on friendship. Long before the glitz of Bollywood surrounded him, Big B played a major role in bringing his younger brother, Ajitabh Bachchan , and Ramola together. What began as an honest friendship later led to a family connection that has only grown stronger over the years.

Long before films and fame
Ramola once opened up in a chat with Rediff, where she revealed the lovely backstory behind her bond with the 'Sholay' actor. She recalled how their paths crossed even before she had any idea she would one day marry his brother.

Ramola said, “My friendship with Amitabh goes back to before he or I got married and even before I met Ajitabh. Amitabh was working in Kolkata in his pre-film days. We moved in the same circle and were very good friends. It was through him that I met Ajitabh.”

Speaking of those early years, Ramola added, “It was pure friendship. This was in the 1960s, before he had thought of joining the films. I think he had a secret yearning for films, but it was not prominent then.” This sincere and deep-rooted friendship laid the foundation for what would become a life-long family relationship.

The unexpected matchmaker
In a sweet twist of fate, it was Amitabh who unknowingly became the matchmaker. Through their friendly bond, Ramola met his younger brother, Ajitabh, and the rest is history. The two later tied the knot, and Ramola became not only a friend but also family.

Ajitabh, five years younger than 'Zanjeer' actor, chose a very different path in life. While the elder Bachchan became a screen legend, Ajitabh moved to London and built a successful career in business. Despite the distance, Ramola said, “We have been out of India for a while, but whenever Amitabh is in London or whenever we are in India, we see a lot of him.”

Ramola and Ajitabh Bachchan have four children together — Bhim, Namrata, Naina, and Nilima. The family may lead a more low-key life compared to Amitabh’s spotlight, but they remain an important part of the Bachchan family fabric.