Amitabh Bachchan

Amitabh Bachchan, often referred to as the “Shahenshah of Bollywood,” is one of the most iconic and influential actors in Indian cinema. Born on October 11, 1942, in Allahabad, United Provinces (now Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh), India, he was named Amitabh Srivastava at birth. His father, Harivansh Rai Bachchan, was a renowned Hindi poet, and his mother, Teji Bachchan, was a social activist with an interest in theatre. Encouraged by his parents to follow his dreams, Amitabh pursued education at Sherwood College, Nainital, and later graduated from Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, with a degree in arts.

Initially aspiring to work in the Indian Air Force or as a radio announcer, Amitabh faced early rejection due to his deep voice—ironically, one of his most famous attributes today. He made his acting debut in 1969 with Saat Hindustani, but it was the 1973 film Zanjeer that transformed him into Bollywood’s “angry young man,” a persona that defined Indian cinema through the 1970s and 1980s. Over the decades, he delivered landmark performances in films like Deewaar (1975), Sholay (1975), Amar Akbar Anthony (1977), Don (1978), Silsila (1981), Shahenshah (1988), Mohabbatein (2000), Black (2005), Paa (2009), and Piku (2015), among many others.

Despite facing a career slump in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Bachchan reinvented himself through character roles and television. His hosting of the quiz show Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) from 2000 onwards revived his popularity, showcasing his warmth, wit, and charisma. Beyond acting, he has worked as a playback singer, film producer, and politician, briefly serving as a Member of Parliament from 1984 to 1987.

Amitabh Bachchan’s contributions to Indian cinema have been recognized with numerous awards, including four National Film Awards for Best Actor, Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2019), and over 15 Filmfare Awards. In 1984, he received the Padma Shri, followed by the Padma Bhushan in 2001 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2015, three of India’s highest civilian honors.

Known for his deep baritone voice, towering height (6 ft 2 in), and powerful screen presence, Bachchan remains a global cultural figure. He has acted in over 200 films across five decades and continues to take on diverse roles, proving his timeless appeal. Married to actress Jaya Bhaduri (Jaya Bachchan) since 1973, they have two children: Abhishek Bachchan, an actor, and Shweta Bachchan Nanda, an author and columnist.

Today, Amitabh Bachchan is not only an actor but also a philanthropist, brand ambassador, and social media influencer, staying connected with millions of fans worldwide. His journey from a struggling newcomer to a cinematic legend is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and unmatched talent.