Amitabh Bachchan is a name that has defined Indian cinema for over five decades. Known as the Shahenshah of Bollywood, his journey is legendary, spanning iconic films, a remarkable family legacy, and personal battles with health that have only added to his aura. Here is everything you need to know about Amitabh Bachchan.
Iconic Films
Amitabh Bachchan’s rise to fame began in the early 1970s, when his intense performances and deep voice caught the audience’s imagination. Some of his most iconic films include:
- Zanjeer (1973), which earned him the title of Bollywood’s “Angry Young Man”
- Deewaar (1975), a gripping drama that became a classic
- Sholay (1975), one of the biggest blockbusters in Indian cinema history
- Amar Akbar Anthony (1977), where his comic timing and charm shone through
- Don (1978), where he played a dual role with effortless style
- Silsila (1981), a romantic drama that became iconic for its story and music
- Coolie (1983), during the filming of which he suffered a life-threatening injury
- Agneepath (1990), which later became a cult classic
- Mohabbatein (2000) and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001), where he embraced more mature roles
- Paa (2009), a film where he played a child suffering from a rare disease, winning numerous awards
- Piku (2015), showcasing his incredible range in a heartwarming story
He has continually reinvented himself across generations, taking on roles in films like Pink (2016), Badla (2019), and Gulabo Sitabo (2020). In addition to movies, he became a household name on television by hosting the Indian version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, Kaun Banega Crorepati, starting in 2000.
Family Legacy
Amitabh Bachchan comes from a family rich in cultural and artistic heritage. His father, Harivansh Rai Bachchan, was a celebrated Hindi poet, while his mother, Teji Bachchan, had a keen interest in theater. Amitabh married actress Jaya Bhaduri (now Jaya Bachchan) in 1973, and together they became Bollywood royalty. They have two children:
- Shweta Bachchan Nanda, who has largely stayed away from acting and pursued writing and fashion
- Abhishek Bachchan, who followed in his father’s footsteps and became a well-known actor
Amitabh’s daughter-in-law is actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, a former Miss World and one of India’s most famous stars. The Bachchan family remains one of the most respected and influential families in the entertainment world, often representing a blend of tradition and modernity.
Health Updates
Throughout his life, Amitabh Bachchan has faced several health challenges. The most serious was in 1982 during the shooting of Coolie, when he suffered a near-fatal intestinal injury. The nation prayed for his recovery, and he made a miraculous comeback. In recent years, he has been candid about various health issues, including liver problems (he lost 75 percent of his liver function due to a past hepatitis infection), respiratory issues, and muscle injuries.
In 2020, he and other family members tested positive for COVID-19 and were hospitalized. He kept his fans updated through social media during this time, showing his resilience and positive spirit. Despite occasional health setbacks, Amitabh continues to work actively, acting in films, endorsing brands, and hosting television shows.
Amitabh Bachchan Today
Today, Amitabh Bachchan remains one of the busiest and most admired figures in Indian entertainment. His humility, work ethic, and ability to connect with audiences of all ages have kept him relevant for generations. He is highly active on social media, sharing daily posts that include thoughts, updates, and nostalgic glimpses from his long career.
Over the years, he has received numerous awards, including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan, among India’s highest civilian honors. In 2018, he was honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest award in cinema. Beyond acting, he engages in charity work, supports farmers, donates to medical causes, and often speaks on social issues.
From a struggling newcomer to a towering icon, Amitabh Bachchan’s journey is the story of perseverance, passion, and timeless greatness.
