'We had to add a punch': Samik Bhattacharya, Anupam Kher laugh over viral poll-season hair remark in Kolkata

Months after West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya's humorous election-season remark about Anupam Kher went viral, the veteran actor finally met the BJP leader in Kolkata, where the two shared a laugh as they revisited the much-talked-about comment.

'People get bored of political speeches'

During their interaction, Kher reminded Bhattacharya of his now-viral campaign statement, where the BJP leader had said, "Anupam Kher can get hair on his head again, but the other government can't come here."

Explaining the context behind the remark, Bhattacharya said it was made in the middle of an election campaign, where political speeches often need memorable one-liners to connect with people.

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"At that time, there was an atmosphere of elections. In such an atmosphere, you have to speak in a way that people accept. People get bored listening to political speeches, so we had to add a punch," Bhattacharya said.

He added that Kher was the perfect reference because he is a well-known face across the country, including West Bengal.

"There are many fans of Anupam Kher here. Everyone knows him and watches his films. That's why your face is in everyone's mind," he told the actor.

'Don't pray that I get hair on my head'

Laughing, Kher replied, "I liked it a lot. I only said, 'Brother, don't pray that I get hair on my head again.'"

Bhattacharya clarified that the statement was meant as a political metaphor.

"What we wanted to say was that the sky could come down to the earth, the earth could go to the sky, and even the waters of the Ganga could enter Writers' Building, but the Trinamool government would not return to power for a fourth time," he said.

The exchange ended on a cordial note, with Kher wishing Bhattacharya success.

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"I pray to God that you do a very good job. I spent some time with you today, and I enjoyed our conversation. Namaskar," the actor said.

Kher's viral response on X

The remark had first grabbed attention on May 5 during the election campaign. Kher had then reacted with characteristic humour on X, writing, "Hey brother, what have I done to you? Why do you want hair to grow on my head? In the current situation, I wouldn't wish for that even in a hundred lifetimes! Jai Shri Ram!"

Kher is currently in Kolkata to promote his upcoming directorial venture and has been meeting political leaders and members of the film fraternity during his visit.