Kalpana Iyer recalls Amitabh Bachchan’s strict discipline on ‘Satte Par Satta’ sets: 'He used to arrive on time every day'

Reflecting on her days on the sets of ‘Satte Par Satta’, Kalpana Iyer spoke about observing Amitabh Bachchan up close and said his consistent professionalism left a deep impression on her, especially in his commitment and punctuality. Speaking about her experience, the veteran actor described Bachchan as deeply committed to punctuality. She said his habit of arriving early left a strong, lasting impression on her during their film shoot in Mumbai and beyond.

Punctuality lessons from Amitabh Bachchan on film sets

In an exclusive conversation with IANS, Kalpana Iyer spoke about her memories of working with Bachchan and reflected on the values she learned during ‘Satte Par Satta’. According to IANS, she said, “How was it working with Amitabh? Any memory of back then?” While responding, she emphasized punctuality as one of the most important qualities a person can have. She told IANS, “I had learned a very important life lesson from my mother - A person who reaches everywhere on time has been blessed with the best upbringing. When you learn to value people’s time, that is the most important trait to have, to inherit, and to pass on.”




Iyer recalled that Bachchan made punctuality a priority every single day during the shoot. She said he would reach the set on time regardless of the call hour or shooting location. “During the shoot, Amitabh used to make sure to arrive on time every day, even though nobody else used to be there,” she said.

Kalpana Iyer recalls memories of ‘Satte Par Satta’ shoot

Sharing a specific memory from the film, Iyer spoke about their early-morning travel schedules in Mumbai. She said, “I did a movie called Satte Par Satta. Amit ji used to stay in Juhu, and I used to stay in Andheri, and we had to go all the way to Ballard Pier early in the morning at 6. am. Both Amit ji and I used to have a white Ambassador, and clockwise, he used to reach on time every day. I used to reach just 5 minutes after him. He would be there at a time when nobody would reach. I have seen him doing this in other places, too.”

Iyer stressed that Bachchan’s discipline stood out because he maintained the same standard across locations and schedules. She said his behavior reinforced the importance of respecting others’ time. She concluded by repeating the message she believes everyone should follow. “Reach on time, value time,” Kalpana Iyer concluded.

Kalpana Iyer, born on July 26, 1956, had a long run in Hindi cinema through the 1980s and 1990s as both an actor and a singer. Over the years, she appeared in more than 100 films, earning recognition for popular dance numbers and for a steady stream of supporting and guest roles that kept her a familiar presence on screen.

Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”