Angry young man. Munna. Big B. AB Sr. Bollywood’s Shahenshah.
Shout out any of these nicknames in a room full of people and they will instantly know who you’re referring to – movie buff or not.
Such is the stardom and stature of Amitabh Bachchan.
In a career spanning over 5 decades, Amitabh Bachchan is the embodiment of the word ‘superstar’. He’s the man who’s worked not just as an actor, but also as a playback singer, film producer, television presenter – even a game show host!
This “angry young man” has been awarded the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibushan for his contribution to the country. This vegetarian and teetotaler was named the ‘hottest vegetarian’ by PETA India in 2012 at the age of 72! And for those who think that Big B is a big thing just in India, know that the French Government honored with its highest civilian honor – Knight of the Legion of Honor. Big B is the first Asian actor to have a wax model displayed at Madame Tussauds’ in London.
Touted as the “Star of the Millennium” and having acted in over 200 movies through the length of his career, his journey hasn’t been the smoothest. There was a time when he was in such demand that the French director François Truffaut called him a “one-man industry”! And then there were times when his movies bombed so badly that even his die-hard fans worried if he’d ever be able to pull out of it.
And yet, even today, with his wife Jaya Bachchan, son Abhishek Bachchan and daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, his is one of the most prominent families in the country.
What makes Amitabh Bachchan a legendary star?
It’s his resilience of returning to the industry even after a near-fatal injury; his capability of reinventing himself and adapting to the changing times; the humility and dedication with which he approaches any film; his innate ability to make his presence felt and above all – the sheer talent and versatility that he possesses.