I wanted to be named Vijay in 'Rann' too: Amitabh

"Ramu (Ram Gopal Varma) wanted my character to be called Harshvardhan Malik. But I told him 'naam se pehle Vijay laga do, shayad picture chal jaayegi (Prefix the name with Vijay, the movie might work)'," Amitabh told reporters. The actor was named Vijay in Zanjeer and then subsequently in many of his popular films like "Deewaar", "Agneepath", "Don", "Shahenshah" and "Shaan" among others. In fact, the product launched under Amitabh's tie-up with Max New York Life Insurance was also called Max Vijay.

Looking charming in a formal black suit, crisp white shirt and a fluorescent green tie, Amitabh was here to promote "Rann". He said the media would be proud of the way his character has been etched out in the film, which is an attempt by Ram Gopal Varma to expose the electronic media. "You (the media) would be proud of Vijay Harshvardhan Malik. He takes media's side. The nation listens to him. He is a man of integrity and respect.

"Personally, I really respect media. Being in the media means great responsibility, it is a very impressive job and needs tough work. I got a chance to visit TV channels and they are all like pythons - need to be fed 24 hours to be alive," he said. The thespian clarified that "Rann" is not a media bashing film.

"The film shows that in the media there is often a conflict between business sensibilities and a person's conscience. Now does a person compromise on his conscience for the survival of his business or vice-versa is what has been highlighted in the movie," he said. "Rann", which releases Jan 29, also features Riteish Deshmukh, Gul Panag and Paresh Rawal.