Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Aug 13: Bollywood stalwart Amitabh Bachchan has once again expressed his admiration for legendary actor Dilip Kumar, describing him as an irreplaceable pillar of Hindi cinema.

During the latest episode of the reality game show Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 18, host Amitabh spoke to contestant Manjeet Singh about the Hindi film industry and the remarkable personalities who helped shape its history.

Highlighting Dilip Kumar's unparalleled contribution to Indian cinema, Amitabh said, "Agar jab bhi Hindi cinema ka itihaas likha jaayega, toh hamesha yeh hoga ‘Before Dilip Kumar ji’ and ‘After Dilip Kumar ji’."

The remark translates to: "Whenever the history of Hindi cinema will be written, it will always be 'Before Dilip Kumar ji' and 'After Dilip Kumar ji'."

Manjeet also used the opportunity to express his admiration for Amitabh, telling the veteran actor, "Sir, after Dilip Kumar ji it will be Amitabh Bachchan." The comment drew loud applause from the audience.

However, Amitabh quickly reiterated his view on Dilip Kumar's unique place in Hindi cinema.

"Aree nahi-nahi Sir, Before Dilip Kumar ji and After Dilip Kumar ji," he said.

Big B went on to describe Dilip Kumar as an enduring pillar of Hindi cinema.

"Vo ek stambh hai, aur vo stambh jo hai, usse koi nahi hara sakta," he said, meaning that Dilip Kumar is a pillar that nobody can surpass.

Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 18 airs Monday to Friday at 9 pm on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV.

Amitabh Bachchan and Dilip Kumar also shared the screen in the 1982 film Shakti, directed by Ramesh Sippy.