During the peak of my career, I once found myself on a flight. Seated next to me was a simple and unpretentious man, dressed in a plain shirt and trousers. He appeared to be an educated, middle-class individual. While other passengers recognized me and engaged in conversation, this man remained oblivious to my presence, quietly engrossed in his book and occasionally glancing out the window. When tea was served, he sipped it quietly.
Curious and eager to break the silence, I smiled at him and initiated a conversation. He looked at me, returned the smile politely, and said, “Hello.”
We began to chat, and I steered the conversation towards movies. “Do you watch films?” I inquired.
He replied, “Oh, very rarely. I watched one many years ago.”
I mentioned that I worked in the film industry.
“Oh, that’s wonderful. What do you do?” he asked.
“I am an actor,” I responded.
He nodded, “Oh, that’s splendid!” and then went back to his reading.
As we disembarked, I shook his hand and said, “It was nice traveling with you. By the way, my name is Amitabh Bachchan.”
He smiled, shook my hand, and said, “Thank you… It was a pleasure meeting you. I’m J.R.D. Tata, Chairman of Tata.”
That day, I learned a valuable lesson: no matter how great you are, there is always someone greater. Humility costs nothing, yet it enriches your soul.
In our life’s journey, embracing humility is essential. You never know whom you might meet or what you might learn from them. The teachings of Islam also emphasize the importance of humility. Allah says in the Quran:
“And do not turn your face away from people in contempt, nor walk in arrogance on earth. Indeed, Allah does not like the arrogant boaster.” (Surah Luqman: 18)
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Whoever humbles himself for the sake of Allah, Allah will elevate him.” (Muslim)
So, my friend, let humility be your constant companion in life. It costs nothing but offers immense rewards. May Allah grant us the virtue of humility and modesty. Ameen.
This story serves as a reminder that true greatness lies in humility and that we should always remain grounded, no matter how high we soar.
This profound encounter stayed with me long after the flight. It was a humbling experience that reshaped my perspective on life and success. Often, in the whirlwind of fame and recognition, it is easy to forget the simple yet profound values that truly define our character. The brief interaction with Mr. Tata reminded me that true success is not just about personal achievements or public acclaim; it is also about how we treat others, regardless of their status or ours. His unassuming demeanor and quiet grace exemplified the essence of humility, teaching me that one’s worth is not measured by their accolades but by their ability to remain modest and grounded.
Reflecting on this, I realized the importance of humility in all aspects of life. In the fast-paced, often superficial world of show business, it is vital to stay connected to one’s roots and values. Humility not only fosters personal growth but also builds genuine relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. It is a virtue that transcends professional boundaries, enriching our personal lives and interactions. As I continue my journey, I strive to embody the humility I witnessed in Mr. Tata, embracing every opportunity to learn from others and to approach life with an open heart and a humble spirit. This story is a testament to the timeless wisdom that no matter how successful we become, staying humble is the key to true greatness.
