Even as Amitabh Bachchan shows signs of improvement after he was hospitalised over the weekend, the outpourings of concern from everyone has left the Big B's family overwhelmed.

Says Sanjay Leela Bhansali, "How does he cope with all this pain? And that he should suffer on his birthday. It's not fair."

Outpouring of love

On Saturday evening, Bhansali was witness to spontaneous love and affection for the star at a classical concert. Veteran vocalist Girija Devi and Kathak maestro Birju Maharaj were performing at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan in Andheri. The director was so moved by their gesture that he was almost in tears.

"Birju Maharaj, Lata Mangeshkar and Amitabh Bachchan are my three heroes," says Bhansali. "When Birju Maharaji invited me, I had to go, as I always do. I had no idea what awaited me there."

At the concert the two super-stalwarts of the  classical kingdom suddenly stopped their performance to pray for the quick recuperation of the Big B.

Wasn't planned

"It was such a spontaneously emotional moment. No one had planned it. But suddenly, Birju Maharajji said, "Let's say a silent prayer for our very own Amitji. And all of us in the audience fell silent to pray. And mind you, Amitji isn't a part of the classical world. It just went to prove that when it comes to art and culture, all categories and segregation vanish. And look at Amitji's reach. He was remembered with such genuine emotion at a classical concert."

Such spontaneous outbursts of affection are being seen all over the country as the Big B is responding well to the rest and medication.

Says son Abhishek, "Pa has a condition known as intestinal obstruction. He's respond- ing well to treatment. Doctors want to keep him in hospital  for a minimum of two days for observation."

Responding Well: Amitabh Bachchan	With Love: (On the left from top) Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Girija Devi and Birju Maharaj