Amitabh Bachchan sent out a statement yesterday to explain his stand on the metro issue. This is the letter we received from his publicist

Dear Sir/Madam,
Certain sections of the media, both electronic and print, have misinterpreted the writings on my blog (bigb.bidadda.com) and I wish to make a clarification. I shall be grateful if this submission is carried in your prestigious paper to clear the air.

Mumbai as a city has given my family and me a place in their hearts besides recognition and respect. My family and I have never, and at no point of time would ever, like to disregard the conveniences of my fellow Mumbaikars and the development being undertaken for a better future for the city and them.

My blog represents my heart and on the matter of the Metro it clearly says the 'general happiness' that it brings to 'commuters' and that 'the misery of crowded locals and the uncertainties of the three-wheeler or the yellow black cab shall hopefully be greatly reduced'.

Indeed I have ended the piece by saying welcome 'fellow passengers'. By fellow passenger, I include myself as one. My request to everyone who visits my blog is to read it in its entirety rather than pick up words and fabricate stories which create an unnecessary sensation. I am proud to be a Mumbaikar and I welcome the changes which are being seen in the city.

- Amitabh Bachchan