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Amitabh Bachchan Biography
Date of Birth

11 October 1942, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, India

Birth Name

Amitabh Harivansh Srivastav

Nickname

Big B

Munna

One Man Industry

Angry Young Man

Bollywood's Shahenshah

Amith

AB Sr.

Height

6' 2" (1.88 m)

Mini Biography

Son of well known poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan and Teji Bachchan. He has a brother named Ajitabh. He completed his education from Uttar Pradesh and moved to Bombay to find work as a film star, in vain though, as film-makers preferred someone with a fairer skin, and he was not quite fair enough. But they did use one of his other assets - his deep baritone voice - which was used for narration and background commentary. He was successful in being cast in Saat Hindustani. He got his break in Bollywood after a letter of introduction from the then Prime Minister Mrs. Indira Gandhi, as he was a friend of her son Rajiv Gandhi. This is how Amitabh made an entry in Bollywood, starting with Zanjeer, co-starred with his future wife-to-be Jaya Bhaduri, and since then there has been no looking back. He married Jaya Bhaduri, an actress in her own rights, he has two kids, Shweta and Abhishek. Shweta has been married, lives a non-filmy life and has a child. Being friends with Rajiv Gandhi, got him to decide to run for seat in the Congress from his hometown but had to leave midterm because of controversies, particularly after Rajiv and he were implicated in the now infamous "Bofors" case along with the U.K. based Hinduja Brothers. After a four year break, he was back in the unsuccessful Mrityudaata (1997), a comeback which the actor wanted to forget. Critics written him off but his career was saved with Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (1998). But four flops in 1999 and incurring debt of over 90 Crores rupees of his sinking company ABCL saw him at an all-time low. To make matters worse, after the defeat of the Congress party, Amitabh lost considerable political support, the opposition made him a target, and his credit rating deteriorated to such an extent that a leading nationalized bank, Canara Bank, sued him for outstanding loans. He did bounce back, presenting the Indian version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire called "Kaun Banega Crorepati?" (2000). After a series of hits with Mohabbatein (2000), Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham... (2001) and Baghban (2003) and his most recent Khakee (2004), a 60 plus Bachchan is showing no signs of slowing down and proving the critics wrong once again.

His son Abhishek is also an actor by his own rights. Amitabh and Jaya were interested in getting Abhishek married to Karishma Kapoor, the daughter of Babita and Randhi Kapoor, they went through a formal engagement, but later broke it off.

The former Miss World and Bollywood actress, Aishwarya Rai, and Abhishek, were formally engaged on Sunday January 14, 2007, at the Bachchan residence in Juhu, Bombay, with the marriage taking place at the Bachchan residence on April 20, 2007.

Currently, he is one of the most busiest actors and singers in Bollywood as well as on TV, as can be seen from the commercials that he appears on, especially on Sahara One. Looks like there are no limits for this super-star and once the "Angry Young Man". of Bollywood.

Born in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, Amitabh Bachchan hails from a Hindu Kayastha family.[3][4] His father, Dr. Harivansh Rai Bachchan was a well-known Hindi poet, while his mother, Teji Bachchan was a Sikh-Punjabi from Faisalabad (now in Pakistan).[5] Bachchan was initially named Inquilaab, inspired from the famous phrase Inquilab Zindabad, during the Indian independence struggle. However, at the suggestion of fellow poet Sumitranandan Pant, Harivansh Rai changed the name to Amitabh which means, "the light that would never go off." Though his surname was Shrivastava, his father had adopted the pen-name Bachchan (meaning child-like in colloquial Hindi), under which he published all his works. It is with this last name that Amitabh debuted in films, and, for all public purposes, it has become the surname of all members of his family. Bachchan's father died in 2003, and his mother in 2007.[6]

Amitabh is the eldest of Harivansh Rai Bachchan's two sons, the second being Ajitabh. His mother had a keen interest in theatre and had been offered a role in a film, but preferred her domestic duties. She had some degree of influence in Bachchan's choice of career because she always insisted that he should take the centre stage.[7] He attended Allahabad's Jnana Prabodhini and Boys' High School (BHS), followed by Nainital's Sherwood College, where he majored in the art stream. He later went on to study at Kirori Mal College of the University of Delhi and completed a Bachelor of Science degree. In his twenties, Bachchan gave up a job as freight broker for the shipping firm, Bird and Co., based in Calcutta now known as Kolkata, to pursue a career in acting.

Career

Early work: 1969–1972

Bachchan made his film debut in 1969 as a voice narrator in Mrinal Sen's National Award winning film Bhuvan Shome. Thereafter he got his first acting role as one of the seven protagonists in Saat Hindustani, a film directed by Khwaja Ahmad Abbas and featuring Utpal Dutt, Madhu and Jalal Agha. Though the film was not a financial success, Bachchan won his first National Film Award for Best Newcomer.[8]

Anand (1971) followed, where he starred alongside Rajesh Khanna. Bachchan's role as a doctor with a cynical view of life garned him his first Filmfare Best Supporting Actor Award. Amitabh then played his first negative role as an infatuated lover-turned-murderer in Parwaana (1971). This was followed by several films including Reshma Aur Shera (1971). During this time, he made a guest appearance in the film Guddi which starred his future wife Jaya Bhaduri. He narrated part of the film Bawarchi. In 1972, he made an appearance in the road action comedy Bombay to Goa, directed by S. Ramanathan.

Early Life:

Amitabh Harivansh Bachchan was born on October 11, 1942 in Allahabad city of Uttar Pradesh to the pair of Harivansh Rai Bachchan and Teji Bachchan. His father was a renowned writer and poet while his mother was a Punjabi from Faisalabad. He has a younger brother Ajitabh Bachchan.

He was initially given the name Inquilab by his father but later changed to his current name on advice of a friend.

Amitabh studied at Boy’s High School and Sherwood College where he took up arts as his subject of choice. He did his graduation in B.Sc from Kirori Mal College of Delhi University.

He married Jaya Bachchan in 1973 soon after his hit film Zanjeer and before Abhimaan. They have a son Abhishek Bachchan and daughter Shweta Bachchan.

His father died in the year 2003 while mother Teji Bachchan in 2007.

Bollywood Career:

Amitabh Bachchan started his film career as a voice narrator in Bhuvan Shome (1969). He got his first opportunity as an actor in Saat Hindustani that won him the Best Newcomer National Award.

He won his first Filmfare Award in 1971 as a supporting actor in Anand along side Rajesh Khanna. He played doctor to his ailing friend. Then he starred in Parwaana (1971), Reshma aur Shera (1971), Guddi and many other films during 1969-1972.

His first major performance that was noticable came in 1973 flick Zanjeer where he played Inspector Vijay alongside Pran. It was after this film that he earned the tag of Angry Young Man of Bollywood.

1975 is still remembered as historic for Bollywood cinema as two of the most blockbuster hits released.

First was Yash Chopra’s Deewar where Amitabh played brother to Shashi Kapoor. The film was ranked as the 4th highest grosser of 1975.

Next was all time blockbuster hit and Film of the Millennium Sholay starring Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Sanjeev Kumar and Amjad Khan. It became the highest grossing film in Indian cinema and is still ranked among top grocers. The movie lasted for more than 30 years in theatres.

Amitabh Bachchan (born as Amitabh Harivansh Srivastav on October 11, 1942), is an Indian film actor of Hindi cinema. He gained popularity in India in the 1970s as an action hero and over the decades of his career which have since spanned numerous film genres, he has become one of the most prominent figures in the history of Indian cinema.

Bachchan has been awarded major awards in his career, including three National Film Awards and twelve Filmfare Awards. He holds the record for most number of Best Actor nominations at the Filmfare Awards. In addition to acting, Bachchan has worked as a playback singer, film producer and television presenter, and was an elected member of the Indian Parliament from 1984 to 1987.

Bachchan is married to actress Jaya Bhaduri. They have two children, Shweta Nanda and Abhishek Bachchan, who is also an actor and is married to Aishwarya Rai.

Early life

Born in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, Amitabh Bachchan hails from a Hindu Kayastha family. His father, Dr. Harivansh Rai Bachchan was a well-known Hindi poet, while his mother, Teji Bachchan was a Sikh from Karachi (now in Pakistan). Bachchan was initially named as Inquilab, inspired from the phrase Inquilab Zindabad, during the Indian independence struggle but was re-christened Amitabh which means, the light that would never go off. Though his last-name was Srivastava, his father had adopted the pen-name Bachchan, under which he published all his works. It is with this last name that Amitabh debuted in films, and, for all public purposes, it has become the surname of all members of his current family.

Amitabh is the elder of Harivansh Rai Bachchan's two sons, the second being Ajitabh. His mother had a keen interest in the theatre and was also offered a role in a film, but preferred her domestic duties. She had some degree of influence in Amitabh's choice of career because she always insisted that he should take the centre stage. Bachchan's father passed away in 2003, and his mother—on December 21, 2007.

Bachchan has a double M.A. (Master of Arts) degree. He attended Allahabad's Jnana Prabodhini and Boys' High School (BHS), followed by Nainital's Sherwood College, where he majored in the art stream. He later went on to study at Kirori Mal College of the University of Delhi and completed a Bachelor of Science degree. In his twenties, Bachchan gave up a job as freight broker for the shipping firm, Bird and Co., based in Calcutta, to pursue a career in acting.

He married actress Jaya Bhaduri on June 3, 1973 according to Bengali rites. The couple have two children: daughter Shweta and son Abhishek.

Career

Early work 1969-1972

Bachchan made his film debut in 1969 as one of the seven protagonists in Saat Hindustani, a film directed by Khwaja Ahmad Abbas. Starring opposite actors such as Utpal Dutt, Madhu and Jalal Agha the film was not a financial success but Bachchan won his first National Film Award for Best Newcomer. The critically acclaimed and commercially successful Anand (1971) followed, where he starred alongside Rajesh Khanna who was the leading popular actor at the time. Bachchan playing the role of Dr. Bhaskar Banerjee treating a cancer patient, a doctor with a cynical view of life and the dark reality of his nation garned him a Filmfare Best Supporting Actor Award for his performance. Amitabh then played the role of an infatuated lover in Parwaana (1971) opposite Navin Nischol, Yogeeta Bali and Om Prakash and was a rare instance of him portraying the villain.This was followed by several films which were not particularly successful at the box office including Reshma Aur Shera (1971) and during this time he made a guest appearance in the film Guddi which starred his future wife to be Jaya Bhaduri opposite Dharmendra. Noted for his deep baritone voice early on in hs career, he narrated part of the film Bawarchi later. In 1972 he made an appearance in the road action comedy Bombay to Goa directed by S. Ramanathan. He starred alongside actors such as Aruna Irani, Mehmood, Anwar Ali and Nasir Hussain. During his struggling days he stayed in Actor, Director & Comedy's Monarch Mehmood's House for 7 (Seven) Long Years.

Rise to Stardom 1973-1983

1973 saw a significant development in Bachchan's career when director Prakash Mehra cast him in the leading role for the film Zanjeer (1973) as Inspector Vijay Khanna. The film was a sharp contrast to the romantically themed films that had generally preceded it and established Amitabh in a new persona – the "angry young man" action hero of Bollywood, reputation he was the acquire in pictures that followed it. It was his first film as the leading protagonist to achieve box office success and earned him a Filmfare Nomination for Best Actor. 1973 was also the year he married Jaya, marrying on June 3 of that year and around this time they appeared in several films together, not only in Zanjeer but in films such as Abhimaan which followed and was released only a month after their ceremony in July 1973. Later Bachchan played the role of Vikram in the film Namak Haraam, a social drama directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee and scripted by Biresh Chatterjee addressing themes of friendship. His supporting role opposite Rajesh Khanna and Rekha was praised and won him the Filmfare Best Supporting Actor Award.

In 1974 Bachchan made several guest appearances in films such as Kunwara Baap and Dost before playing a supporting role in the highest grossing film of that year Roti Kapda Aur Makaan. The film directed and written by Manoj Kumar which addressed themes of honesty in the face of oppression and financial and emotional hardship was a critical and commercial success, placing Amitabh opposite Kumar himself, Shashi Kapoor and Zeenat Aman. Bachchan then played the leading role in film Majboor released on December 6 1974 which was a remake of the Hollywood film Zigzag starring George Kennedy but was only a moderate success at the box office[5]In 1975 he starred in a variety of film genres from the comedy Chupke Chupke, the crime drama Faraar to the romantic drama Mili. However 1975 was the year when he appeared in two films which are regarded as important in Hindi cinematic history. He starred in the Yash Chopra directed film Deewar opposite Shashi Kapoor, Nirupa Roy, and Neetu Singh which earned him a Filmfare Nomination for Best Actor. The film became a major hit at the box office in 1975, ranking in at number 4. and the Indiatimes Movies ranks Deewaar amongst the Top 25 Must See Bollywood Films. Released on August 15, 1975 was Sholay (meaning fire) which became the highest grossing film of all time in India earning Rs. 2,36,45,00,000 equivalent to US$ 60 million, after adjusting for inflation. Bachchan played the role of Jaidev opposite a cast which included some of the top names in the industry including Dharmendra, Hema Malini, Sanjeev Kumar, Jaya Bhaduri and Amjad Khan. In 1999, BBC India declared it the "Film of the Millennium" and like Deewar has been cited by Indiatimes movies as amongst the Top 25 Must See Bollywood Films. In that same year, the judges of the 50th annual Filmfare awards awarded it with a special award called Filmfare Best Film of 50 Years.

After the phenonemal success of films such as Sholay at the box office, Bachchan had now consilidated his position in the industry and from 1976 through to 1984 would receive an unprecedented number of Filmfare Best Actor Award Awards and nominations. Although films such as Sholay cemented his status as Bollywood's pre-eminent action hero, Bachchan illustrated that he was flexible in other roles, successfully playing the romantic lead, in films such as Kabhie Kabhie (1976) and comic timing in comedies such as Amar Akbar Anthony (1977) and of course earlier in Chupke Chupke (1975) . In 1976 he was once again cast by director Yash Chopra in his second film, Kabhi Kabhie, a romantic tale in which Bachchan starred as a young poet named Amit Malhotra who falls deeply in love with a beautiful young girl named Pooja played by actress Rakhee Gulzar. The emotional eclectic of the dialogue and softness of the subject matter proved a direct contrast to some of Amitabh's earlier grittier action pictures and those he would later go on to play. The film saw him nominated for the Filmfare Best Actor Award and was a notable box office success. In 1977 he won the Filmfare Best Actor Award for his performance in Amar Akbar Anthony where he played the third lead opposite Vinod Khanna and Rishi Kapoor as Anthony Gonsalves. 1978 was possibly the most accoladed year of his career and he starred in all four of the highest grossing films of India in that year. He once again resumed double roles in films such as Kasme Vaade as Amit and Shankar and Don playing the characters of Don, a leader of an underworld gang and his look alike Vijay. His performance won him the Filmfare Best Actor Award and considerable critical acclaim as with his performances in Trishul and Muqaddar Ka Sikander which both earned him further Filmfare Best Actor nominations. On account of this unprecedented run and success he encountered at this stage in his career, he was billed a "one-man industry" by the French director Francois Truffaut.

In 1979 for the first time, Amitabh was required to use his singing voice for the film Mr. Natwarlal which he starred in alongside Rekha. His performance in the film saw him nominated for both the Filmfare Best Actor Award and the Filmfare Best Male Playback Awards. In 1979 he also received Best Actor nomination for Kaala Patthar (1979) and then went on to be nominated again in 1980 for the Raj Khosla directed film Dostana in which he starred opposite Shatrughan Sinha and Zeenat Aman. Dostana proved to be the top grossing film of 1980. In 1981 he starred in Yash Chopra's melodrama film Silsila where he starred alongside his wife Jaya and rumoured lover Rekha. Other films of this period include Ram Balram (1980), Shaan (1980), Lawaaris (1981), and Shakti (1982) which pitted him against legendary actor Dilip Kumar.

1982 injury during filming Coolie

While filming Coolie in 1982, Bachchan nearly fatally injured his intestines during the filming of a fight scene with co-actor Puneet Issar. Bachchan had taken the liberty to perform his own stunts in the film and one scene required him to fall onto a table and then on the ground. However as he jumped towards the table, the corner of the table struck his abdomen resulting in a splenic rupture that saw him lose a significant amount of blood. He was flown out and needed urgent operation (splenectomy) and remained critically ill in hospital for many months, and at times was close to death. A rumor spread that he had died from the accident and a remarkable outpouring of support and concern by his fans and the nation in general followed. The accident received wider world coverage and hit the headlines in the UK something unheard of at the time. Many Indians prayed in temples or offered to sacrifice their own limbs to save him and later there were mile-long queues of well-wishing fans outside the hospital where he was recuperating. Nevertheless he spent many months recovering and resumed filming later that year after a long period of recuperation. The film was released in 1983 and partly due to the huge publicity of Bachchan's accident the film was a box office success.

The director, Manmohan Desai altered the ending for Coolie after Bachchan's accident. Bachchan's character was originally intended to have been killed off but after the change of script, the character lived in the end. It would have been inappropriate, said Desai, for the man who had just fended off death in real life to be killed on screen. Also, in the released film the footage of the fight scene is frozen at the critical moment, and a caption appears onscreen marking this as the instant of the actor's injury and the ensuing publicity of the accident.

Later, he was struck with Myasthenia gravis which occurred either because of the heavy medication that he took during his Coolie accident or because of the blood transfusion that he had received. His illness made him feel weak both mentally and physically and he decided to quit films and venture into politics. At this time he had developed a pessimistic view of his film career, and was concerned with how a new film would be received every Friday. Before every release he would negatively state, "Yeh film to flop hogi!" ("This film will flop").

Politics: 1984-1987

In 1984, Amitabh took a break from acting and briefly entered politics in support of long-time family friend Rajiv Gandhi. He contested Allahabad's Lok Sabha seat against H. N. Bahuguna, former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and won by highest victory margin in general election history (68.2% of the vote). His political career, however, was short-lived: He resigned after three years, leaving his term incomplete. The resignation followed Bachchan's implication and that of his brother in the 'Bofors scandal' by a newspaper which he vowed to take to court. Bachchan was eventually found not to be guilty of involvement in the ordeal.

His old friend Amar Singh helped him during a financial crisis due to the failure of his company ABCL. Therefore Bachchan started to support Amar Singh's political party, the Samajwadi party. Jaya Bachchan joined Samajwadi Party and became a Rajya Sabha Member. Bachchan has continued to do favors for the Samajwadi party, including advertisements and political campaigns. These activities have recently gotten him into trouble again in the Indian courts for false claims after a previous fiasco of submission of legal papers by him stating that he is a farmer.

Very few are aware of the somewhat self-imposed press ban on Bachchan. Stardust and some the film magazines got together to form an association that banned Bachchan for 15 years during his peak. They decided not to print anything about Bachchan in any of their publications. Bachchan had said that he had banned the press from entering his sets almost till the end of 1989. However, he had nothing personal against any particular magazine. It has been said that Bachchan had banned certain publications because he disliked what was being published about him and as such he vetoed them in an attempt to get them to conform this.

Slump and retirement: 1988-1992

In 1988, Bachchan returned to films after a three year stint in politics and played the title role in Shahenshah, which was a box office success due to the hype of Bachchan's comeback. After the success of his comeback film however, his star power began to wane as all of his subsequent films failed at the box office. The 1991 hit film Hum looked like it might reverse this trend, but the momentum was short-lived as his string of box office failures continued. Notably, despite the lack of hits, it was during this period that Bachchan won his second National Film Award, for his memorable performance as a Mafia don in the 1990 film Agneepath. These years would be the last he would be seen on screen for some time. After the release of Khuda Gawah in 1992, Bachchan went into semi-retirement for five years. In 1994 one of his delayed films Insaniyat was released but was also a box office failure.

Producer and acting comeback 1996-1999

Bachchan turned producer during his temporary retirement period and setup Amitabh Bachchan Corporation, Ltd. (A.B.C.L.) in 1996 with the vision of becoming a 10 billion rupees (approx 250 million $US) premier entertainment company by the year 2000. ABCL's strategy was to introduce products and services covering the entire section of the India's entertainment industry. Its operations were mainstream commercial film production and distribution, audio cassettes and video discs, production and marketing of television software, celebrity and event management. Soon after the company was launched in 1996, the first film produced by the company was Tere Mere Sapne which failed to do well at the box office but launched the careers of actors such as Arshad Warsi and South films superstar Simran. ABCL produced a few other films none of which did well.

In 1997, Bachchan attempted to make his acting comeback with the film Mrityudaata, produced by ABCL. Though Mrityudaata attempted to reprise Bachchan's earlier success as an action hero, like most of ABCL ventures, the film was a failure both financially and critically. ABCL was the main sponsor of the The 1996 Miss World beauty pageant, Bangalore and lost millions due to the poor management of the event. The fiasco and the consequent legal battles surrounding ABCL and various entities after the event, coupled with the fact that ABCL was reported to have overpaid most of its top level managers, eventually led to its financial and operational collapse in 1997. The company went into administration and was later on declared as a failed company by Indian Industries board. The Bombay high court, in April 1999 restrained Bachchan from selling off his Bombay bungalow 'Prateeksha' and two flats till the pending loan recovery cases of Canara Bank were disposed of. Bachchan had, however, pleaded that he had mortgaged his bungalow to Sahara India Finance for raising funds for his company.

Bachchan later attempted to revive his acting career and had average success with Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (1998) and received positive reviews for Sooryavansham (1999) but most, however, then believed that Bachchan's glory days were over as all his other films such as Lal Baadshah (1999) and Hindustan Ki Kasam (1999) were box office failures.

Television career

In the year 2000, Bachchan stepped up to host India's adaptation of the British television game-show, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? entitled, Kaun Banega Crorepati. As it did in most other countries where it was adopted, the program found immediate and profound success, in no small part due to Bachchan's charisma. It is believed that Bachchan charged a whopping Rs 25 lakhs (2.5 million Indian Rupees, approximately US$60,000 ) per weekly episode which strengthened Bachchan and his family both financially and morally after the setbacks that he had to cope after ABCL's collapse. The Canara Bank also withdrew its law suit against Bachchan in November 2000. Bachchan hosted KBC till November 2005, and its success set the stage for his return to film popularity.

Return to prominence: 2000-present

In 2000, Amitabh Bachchan regained his prominence when he appeared in Yash Chopra's box-office super hit, Mohabbatein directed by Aditya Chopra, in which he played a stern, older figure that rivalled the character of India's current heartthrob, Shahrukh Khan. Audiences appreciated Bachchan's work, as he played a character whose age approximately mirrored his own and also because his character in the movie very much matched his pre-established image of angry-(no-longer)young-man. Other hits followed, with Bachchan appearing as an older family patriarch in Ek Rishtaa: The Bond of Love (2001), Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001) and Baghban (2003). As an actor, he continued to exploit a range of characters suiting with his profile, receiving critical acclaim for his performances in Aks (2001), Aankhen (2002), Khakee (2004), Dev (2004) and Black (2005). Taking advantage of this resurgence, Amitabh started endorsing a variety of products and services, appearing in many television and billboard advertisements. In 2005 and 2006 he starred with his son Abhishek in the hit films Bunty Aur Babli (2005), the Godfather tribute Sarkar (2005), and Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna (2006). All of them have been very successful at the box office. His later releases in 2006 and early 2007: Baabul (2006), Eklavya and Nishabd (2007) failed to do well at the box office but his performances in each of them have been appreciated by critics. He also made a guest-appearance as himself in the Kannada movie Amruthadaare directed by Nagathihalli Chandrashekhar.

In May 2007, two of his films Cheeni Kum and the multi-starrer Shootout at Lokhandwala were released. Shootout at Lokhandwala did very well at the box office and was declared a hit in India and Cheeni Kum picked up after a slow start and has been declared an overall average hit.

In August 2007, a remake of his biggest hit Sholay (1975) which was titled Ram Gopal Varma Ki Aag released and had him play the role of the villain Babban Singh (originally Gabbar Singh) who was played by the late actor Amjad Khan in the 1975 original. The film proved to be a disaster at the box office and was also poorly received by critics.

His first English language film Rituparno Ghosh's The Last Lear premiered at the 2007 Toronto International Film Festival on September 9, 2007. He received positive reviews from critics who hailed his performance as his best ever since Black.

Bachchan is also going to play a supporting role in his first international film titled Shantaram which is directed by Mira Nair and stars Hollywood actor Johnny Depp in the lead. The film was due to begin filming in February 2008 but due to the writer's strike, the film has been pushed to begin filming in September 2008.

On May 9, 2008, Bhoothnath in which he plays the title role as a ghost was released. His latest released film in June 2008 was Sarkar Raj which is a sequel to his 2005 film Sarkar.

Health

2005 Hospitalisation

In November 2005, Amitabh Bachchan was admitted to Lilavati Hospital's ICU once more, to undergo surgery for diverticulitis of the small intestine. This occurred after Bachchan complained of pains in his abdomen some days prior. During the period and that following his recovery, most of his projects were put on hold, including the television show he was in the process of hosting, Kaun Banega Crorepati. India also appeared to come to a standstill, with celebrity after celebrity visiting him to offer well-wishes and prayers. News of the incident saturated coverage across newspapers and TV news channels. Amitabh returned to work in March 2006.

Voice

Bachchan is known for his deep, baritone voice. He has been a narrator, a playback singer and presenter for numerous programmes. Renowned film director Satyajit Ray was so impressed with Bachchan's voice, that he decided to use his voice as commentary in Shatranj Ke Khiladi since he did not find any suitable role for him. Before entering the film industry, Bachchan applied for a job with All India Radio for the post of a news announcer, for which he was rejected.

Controversies and Criticism

Barabanki Land Scam

In the runup to the Uttar Pradesh state assembly elections, 2007, Amitabh Bachchan made a film extolling the virtues of the Mulayam Singh government. His Samajwadi Party was routed, and Mayawati came to power. On June 2, 2007, a Faizabad court ruled that he had illegally acquired agricultural land designated specifically for landless Dalit farmers. He may also be investigated on related charges of forgery. As he has allegedly claimed he was a farmer. If he does not qualify as the owner of agricultural land elsewhere, he may also lose a 20 acre farmhouse property he had purchased at Maval near Pune. On July 19, 2007, after the scandal broke out, Bachchan surrendered the land acquired in Barabanki in Uttar Pradesh and Pune. He wrote to the chief minister of Maharashtra, Vilasrao Deshmukh, to donate away the lands illegally acquired by him and his son Abhishek in Pune. However, the Lucknow Court has put a stay on the land donation and said that the status quo on the land be maintained.

The trademark deep baritone voice, the tall, brooding persona, and intense eyes, made Amitabh Bachchan the ideal "Angry Young Man" in the 1970s, thereby changing the face of Hindi cinema. The son of the late poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan and Teji Bachchan, he was born in Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh. After completing his education from Sherwood College, Nainital, and Kirori Mal College, Delhi University, he moved to Calcutta to work for shipping firm Shaw and Wallace. Later, he moved to Bombay and struggled for a while to get his foot in the door of the Hindi film industry. The lanky, dark, and intensely brooding persona did not go down well with directors who were looking for wise-cracking, fair, loverboys - the trademark of the Indian hero in the 1960s. Starting with the low key Saat Hindustani, Bachchan struggled through many roles and was relegated at times to doing voice-overs and in one instance playing a deaf-mute (his deep baritone voice might have overshadowed the other actors!). He broke through with Zanjeer (the Chain) in 1973 playing opposite his real-life love interest and future wife Jaya Bhaduri. His persona seemed apt for the 1970s, capturing the resentment of underemployed youth and the increasing cult of violence. Bachchan reworked the image of the Hindi film hero with major hits like Deewar, Sholay, Trishul, Don, Kala Patthar, and Shakti. Adapting former screen idol Dilip Kumar's mannerisms and adding his own flamboyance, he popularized the violent melodrama. He proved that he had an equal flair for tragedies (Deewar, Muqaddar Ka Sikandar, Shakti) and comedies (Chupke Chupke, Don, Naseeb, Amar Akbar Anthony) as well. His most memorable performance was as the renegade against a harsh society in Deewar. After Amar Akbar Anthony in which he reveled in the role of the Cathlolic bootlegger - he played similar "masala" roles, movies that required action, comedy, tragedy, and romance in one character. This had disastrous consequences later with movies disintegrating into Amitabh variety shows rather than plot-driven stories. Bachchan was dubbed the Superstar, taking over that title from Rajesh Khanna, something he hung on to until the mid 1980s when the floor widened after his temporary departure. At the height of his popularity he was injured in an accident while shooting for the film Coolie - long lines of people prayed for his recovery at the Breach Candy hospital, underscoring his megastar status. He left films in 1985 to become a Member of Parliament from Allahabad constituency as a Congress party candidate, as a favor to his family friend Rajiv Gandhi - the new Prime MInister of India. A report of involvement in financial irregularities (of which he was completely cleared later) made him decide to step down as MP. His return in 1987 was lukewarm as the Hindi film industry had moved on and newer, younger heroes essayed the part of Angry Young Man with more conviction. Bachchan seemed to have lost his heart in making films as his later roles did not show the flicker of passion that had marked earlier efforts in the 1970s. In 1989, for the first time since 1976, three of his films were flops i.e. they could not recover their money (in the Hindi film industry a flop is a film that does not recover a distributor's price, not the producer's cost). A series of lackluster films in the 1990s pointed to a long overdue exit, common to many other stars. A seemingly well-thought out venture to start a production company ABCL landed him in immense debts. Astonishingly, he burst back with a double act: one, playing the stern patriarch (the kind against which he had rebelled in the 1970s but which role was suited to his gravelly voice), and two, reinventing himself as a brand that in turn, could market anything. He began the latter by hosting the Indian version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire (Kaun Banegaa Crorepati) and is now back in demand for endorsements, advertisements as well as many movie roles. At sixty plus, Amitabh Bachchan is a greater icon than he

Amitabh went to Sherwood College, a boarding school in Nainital, and then to Kirori Mal College in Delhi University where he earned a double MA. The elder son of Harivansh Rai Bachchan was a former stage actor, radio announcer and freight company executive in Shaw Wallace in Calcutta, before coming to the land of dreams, Bombay (now Mumbai). He had to struggle a lot in Bollywood because of his unconventional looks and his height. At 6’3”, he was considered far too tall by the filmmakers. Surprisingly, despite having a rich baritone voice, Bachchan failed in an audition at the All India Radio!

Ultimately, it was K A Abbas who gave Amitabh his first break in ‘Saat Hindustani’ (1969). But the film failed miserably, with Bachchan going almost unnoticed.

Amitabh played the lead role, for the first time in his career, in ‘Pyar Ki Kahani’ (1971), directed by Ravikant Nagaich.

It was on the sets of B R Ishara’s ‘Ek Nazar’ (1972) that Amitabh and Jaya Bhaduri realized that they were in love with each other. They married soon after.

Though Amitabh got an award for the best supporting actor for ‘Anand’ (1972), he was eclipsed by a stellar performance from Rajesh Khanna.

It was his 13th film 'Zanjeer’, directed by Prakash Mehra, which catapulted Amitabh to fame. In the film, he played a strict police officer. The role, which fetched him the title ‘The Angry Young Man’, came to him by default. A host of actors like Dharmendra, Dev Anand and Raj Kumar refused to do the role on account of some apprehension.

Then began a remarkable journey to fame and success. In no time the Indian film industry was declared a ‘One Man Industry’, and Bachchan its undisputed king.

Amitabh had his ‘sweet revenge’ against Rajesh Khanna by outshining him in ‘Namak Haraam’ (1974). The film secured him another award for Best Supporting Actor.

The year 1975 saw the release of Amitabh’s two biggest hits till date. Ramesh Sippy’s ‘Sholay’ and Yash Chopra’s ‘Deewaar’. Amitabh got his first Best Actor Award for Manmohan Desai’s ‘Amar Akbar Anthony’ (1977), next year for ‘Don’ and then for ‘Hum’ (1991).

He also bagged the National Award for Best Actor for ‘Agneepath’, which was made by the late Mukul Anand.

Amitabh worked with a host of directors in the 70s and the 80s ranging from Prakash Mehra to Yash Chopra and from Hrishikesh Mukherjee to Manmohan Desai.

After ‘Zanjeer’ Amitabh again joined hands with Prakash Mehra to give hits like ‘Hera Pheri’ (1975), ‘Muqaddar Ka Siqander’ (1979), ‘Lawaaris’ (1981), ‘Namak Halaal’ (1982) and ‘Sharaabi’ (1984).

Yash Chopra exploited the romantic side of Bachchan to the hilt in ‘Kabhi Kabhie’ (1976) and ‘Silsila’ (1981). Bachchan also did the ‘angry’ roles with Yash Chopra in ‘Trishul’ (1978) and ‘Kaala Patthar’ (1979).

Bachchan essayed a fantastic range of ‘off-beat’ roles under the direction of veteran Hrishikesh Mukherjee. Apart from ‘Anand’ and ‘Namak Haraam’, he gave standout performances in ‘Abhimaan’ (1973) ‘Mili’ (1975), ‘Chupke Chupke’ (1975), ‘Jurmana’ (1979) and ‘Bemisaal’ (1982).

With the late Manmohan Desai, the director with the Midas touch, Amitabh did nine films, which included blockbusters like ‘Amar Akbar Anthony’, ‘Suhaag’ (1979) and ‘Coolie’ (1983).

The adulation for Amitabh became clear when he was gravely injured during the filming of ‘Coolie’ in 1983. While he was battling for life in the hospital, the whole nation offered prayers at temples and mosques for his recovery. His other hits with ‘Man’ were ‘Parvarish’ (1977), ‘Naseeb’ (1981), ‘Desh Premee’ (1982) and ‘Mard’ (1985).

Amitabh’s sizzling on-screen chemistry with Rekha worked wonders at the box office. No wonder, the delectable duo was considered one of the most successful Bollywood pairs. They worked together for the first time in Dulal Guha’s ‘Do Anjaane’ (1976).

Amitabh matched the acting skills of another great actor in Ramesh Sippy’s ‘Shakti’ (1982). The son of a strict police officer (Dilip Kumar), he takes to the life of high crime and smuggling. It was a big challenge for Amitabh the actor, and he came out with flying colors.

In the wake of the assassination of Indira Gandhi in 1984, on the advice of his close friend Rajiv Gandhi, he contested the general elections for the first time from his hometown Allahabad. His electoral debut proved the Waterloo of stalwart H N Bahuguna.

His stint in politics, however, proved short-loved. As ill luck would have it, Amitabh got embroiled in some scandals. Having realized that politics was not his cup of tea, Amitabh resigned his seat in Parliament, vowing never to dabble in politics again.

In 1988 came Tinu Anand’s ‘Shahenshah’. It blazed a new trail, with Amitabh becoming the first major film star to take his film’s distribution rights for Mumbai in lieu of his salary.

The post-‘Shahenshah’ period marked a lull in the career of Amitabh. A host of mediocre films like ‘Ganga Jamuna Saraswati’, ‘Toofan’, ‘Jaadugar’ littered this phase of Bachchan’s career.

But then, the Big B bounced back – in brilliant fashion-- when the industry started to write him off. The comeback film was ‘Hum’ (1991) which was a smashing hit, thanks to Big B’s stellar performance.

A few years later, Amitabh started his own production company, the Amitabh Bachchan Corporation Limited (ABCL). ABCL ventured into film distribution with Mani Ratnam’s ‘Bombay’. It also was the principal sponsor of the Miss Universe Contest, held in Bangalore in 1996.

Unfortunately, ABCL fell on evil days, buried neck deep in debt. The company’s cup of woe ran over when his films flopped miserably at the box-office. And he was again ‘written off’ by the industry.

This time, too, Bachchan bounced back in style. Only, it was his performance on the small screen that revived the Bachchan magic. The host of ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’ once again rode the roller coaster of fame. A mellowed Bachchan found himself firmly ‘locked’ in the hearts of millions of his adoring fans. The show represented a paradigm shift in the history of Indian television. It is still luxuriating in the lap of success.

Then came the international accolades. Amitabh was chosen Superstar of the Millennium, easing out giants like Sir Lawrence Olivier and Charlie Chaplin on a BBC online poll. National recognition followed soon. On January 26, 2001 he was awarded the Padma Bhushan for his outstanding contributions to Indian Cinema.

Amitabh is a relieved man now, having paid off all his debts. What is more, he is once again a force to reckon with in the Indian film industry and has some very interesting films coming up.

Undoubtedly, Amitabh is still the Shahenshah of the Indian film industry. The Big B is an icon who has survived three decades of competition, even trends. And emerged a winner.

Amitabh's parents were Harivansh Rai 'Bachchan' and Teji. Harivansh Rai was a well known Hindi poet. Amitabh attended Boys' High School in Allahabad followed by Sherwood College in Nainital and went on to Delhi University to earn a degree in science.

In 1982, Amitabh was injured while filming on the set of Coolie. He was rushed to a hospital in critical condition. His condition was major news, as millions of avid fans waited for hospital bulletins and prayed for his recovery.

Amitabh recovered and resumed making films. Popular interest in his injury had been so high that when Coolie was released, it featured a freeze-frame and caption, isolating the exact instant during a fight scene when Amitabh was hurt.

Amitabh Bachchan married actress Jaya Bhaduri in 1973. He has co-starred with Jaya in many films: Zanjeer, Abhimaan, Sholay, Silsila and, Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham. They have two children: Shweta Bachchan Nanda (b. 1974) and Abhishek Bachchan (b. 1976). Abhishek Bachchan has already followed his father's footsteps, having starred in a number of recent movies.

His first film was Saat Hindustani (1969). He became well known as a movie star in 1973, with the films Abhimaan and Zanjeer.

Amitabh's most loved films and characters date from this period. Fans remember him from box office hits like Sholay, Amar Akbar Anthony, Trishul, Don and Deewar . Amitabh often played an angry young man fighting a corrupt establishment -- a theme that had immense appeal in the India of that period. Moreover, he had great on-screen presence and a real flair for comedy. However, even his most ardent fans will admit that many of his films would be forgettable if not for his presence; they were run-of-the-mill masala movies with creaking plots and sub-par production values. While he was a star, none of that mattered, but lack of selectivity may have had something to do with his later career doldrums.

He had been making films all through the 1980s and 1990s, but few had succeeded. Mrityudata (1997), failed at the box office. Lal Badshah and Major Saab did little better. Bade Miyan Chhote Miyan and Mohabbatein were hits, but critics credited his co-stars Govinda and Shahrukh Khan, not Amitabh. Industry gossip said that the Big B was finished as an actor.

But Bachchan still had charisma. In 1999, in a BBC Online Poll, he was named the Superstar of the Millennium ahead of the likes of Alec Guinness and Marlon Brando. In June, 2000 he became the first living Asian to have a wax statue erected in his honour at Madame Tussaud's.

In 2000, he was chosen as the host for a new Indian game show, Kaun Banega Crorepati, the Indian version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?. Amitabh was a suave, assured host and the show became an enormous hit. When the show was on, the street traffic dropped dramatically; restaurants and movie theaters complained of diminishing clientele. Critics finally admitted that Amitabh still had box-office magic. (The show has recently started airing again, to much the same interest.)

Since his game show success, he has appeared in several hit movies. Amitabh has also appeared in many ads, both for commercial products and for various non-profits. He has supported campaigns for eye donations and against polio and AIDS.

An Amitabh film retrospective was held between April 8 and April 19, 2005 at the Lincoln Center in New York. The retrospective featured films starring Bachchan including Hrishikesh Mukherjee's Anand and Abhimaan and Sanjay Bhansali's Black. Amitabh was there for the plaudits; he also took this opportunity to appear on a number of television talk shows.

In 1984, Bachchan briefly entered politics in support of long-time family friend Rajiv Gandhi. He contested Allahabad's parliament seat against H. N. Bahuguna, a well-known politician and won. However, his political career was short-lived; he resigned after three years before finishing his term. At the time of his resignation, Gandhi's Congress Party was being accused of corruption. Bachchan was never implicated in the corruption and has since distanced himself from the Gandhi family. Bachchan denies that the these events were connected, commenting that he found politics unpleasant and resigned for personal reasons.

In 1995, Amitabh went into business, starting the Amitabh Bachchan Corporation Limited, or ABCL. ABCL was to be a media conglomerate, a Hollywood-style entertainment company. Amitabh may have been ahead of his time, or just unsuited to be a business mogul, as the company did not succeed. He did not file for bankruptcy, but has used his acting income to pay his business debts, which are rumored to have been completely cleared in 2005. Some observers speculate that he will try to revive his company

Awards

Bachchan is a recipient of the Padma Shri (1983) and the Padma Bhushan (2005), civilian honours from the indian government. In 1999, he was named BBC Superstar of the Millenium. He has also won many Filmfare Awards.

Amitabh attended the prestigious Sherwood School, Nainital, and graduated from Kirorimal College, Delhi.

His first ever job was in a company called Shaw Wallace. He also worked as a freight broker for a shipping firm, which went by the name of Bird and Co, drawing a four-figure salary and languishing in the club lands of Calcutta.

His favourite screen name is Vijay (Deewar, Zanjeer, Shakti) and favourite screen profession was to play a cop (Zanjeer, Ram Balram, Bade Miya Chote Miya, Aks)

While shooting for a fight sequence in Manmohan Desai's Coolie, Amitabh was knocked down by the film's villain Puneet Issar, due to bad timing, seriously injuring him. August 2 is regarded as the day when he got a new lease of life.

He is a vegetarian, who loves to gorge on simple food, like aloo puri, pakodas, dhoklas and parathas.

Early Life:

He was initially given the name Inquilab by his father but later changed to his current name on advice of a friend.

Amitabh studied at Boy’s High School and Sherwood College where he took up arts as his subject of choice. He did his graduation in B.Sc from Kirori Mal College of Delhi University.

He married Jaya Bachchan in 1973 soon after his hit film Zanjeer and before Abhimaan. They have a son Abhishek Bachchan and daughter Shweta Bachchan.

His father died in the year 2003 while mother Teji Bachchan in 2007.

Bollywood Career:

Amitabh Bachchan started his film career as a voice narrator in Bhuvan Shome (1969). He got his first opportunity as an actor in Saat Hindustani that won him the Best Newcomer National Award.

1975 is still remembered as historic for Bollywood cinema as two of the most blockbuster hits released.

First was Yash Chopra’s Deewar where Amitabh played brother to Shashi Kapoor. The film was ranked as the 4th highest grosser of 1975.

Upto this point Amitabh gave many hits but won his first Filmfare Award for Best Actor for Amar Akbar Anthony in 1977 in which he played Anthony Gonsalves. Before that he was nominated for Best Actor Award in Kabhie Kabhie (1976).

Some of his other acclaimed movies include Trishul, Muqaddar Ka Sikander, Mr. Natwarlal, Silsila, Dostana, Ram Balram, Shaan, Lawaaris and Shakti.

He was seriously injured on the sets of his film Coolie on July 26, 1982 while shooting for a fight scene with Puneet Issar. Amitabh fell on a table and struck his abdomen to the corner of the table. He was hospitalized for many months putting breaks to the film. He started working only in 1983 and the movie was a success.

That injury made him ill and weak and he decided to quit films to make his mark in Politics. He returned to films in 1988 with Shahenshah a hit again, and then with Hum (1991) that won him his third Filmfare Best Actor Award.

Awards & Achievements:

Some of the awards won by Amitabh Bachchan Includes:

Filmfare Awards:

Filmfare Best Supporting Actor Award for Anand (1971)

Filmfare Best Supporting Actor Award for Namak Haraam (1973)

Filmfare Best Actor Award for Amar Akbar Anthony (1977)

Filmfare Best Actor Award for Don (1978)

Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award (First Recipient 1990)

Filmfare Best Actor Award for Hum (1991)

Filmfare Best Actor Award for Black(2005)

Filmfare Best Actor Award for Paa (2010)

Superstar of the Millennium 2000

National Awards:

National Film Award for Best Newcomer for Saat Hindustani in 1970

National Film Award for Best Actor for Agneepath (1991)

National Film Award for Best Actor for Paa (2010)

Other Awards & Honors:

Padma Shri (1984)

Padma Bhushan (2001)

Actor of the Century (2001)

Honorary Citizenship Deauville (2003)

The Knight of the Legion of Honour (2007)

Honorary Doctorate (Jhansi University, Delhi University, De Montfort University)

Lifetime Achievement Award (Asian Film Award 2010)

Politics: 1984-1987

Slump and retirement: 1988-1992

Producer and acting comeback 1996-1999

Television career

Return to prominence: 2000-present

On May 9, 2008, Bhoothnath in which he plays the title role as a ghost was released. His latest released film in June 2008 was Sarkar Raj which is a sequel to his 2005 film Sarkar.

Health

2005 Hospitalisation

Voice

Controversies and Criticism

Barabanki Land Scam

On October 12, 2007, Bachchan abandoned his claim in respect of the land at Daulatpur village in Barabanki district. On December 11, 2007, the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court gave a clean chit to Bachchan in a case pertaining to alleged fraudulent allotment of government land to him in Barabanki district. Giving a clean chit to Bachchan, a single Lucknow bench of Justice said there was no finding that the actor "himself committed any fraud or manipulated any surreptitious entry in the revenue records".

After receiving a positive verdict in Barabanki case, Amitabh Bachchan intimated to Maharashtra government that he did not wish to surrender his land in Maval tehsil of Pune district.

Raj Thackeray's criticism

In January 2008 at political rallies, Raj Thackeray the chief of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, targeting Amitabh Bachchan, asserted that the actor was "more inclined" towards his native state than Maharashtra. He expressed his disapproval of Amitabh's inaugurating a girls' school named after his daughter-in-law—actor Aishwarya Rai Bachchan—at Barabanki in Uttar Pradesh, rather than in Maharashtra. According to media reports, Raj's censure of Amitabh, whom he admires, stemmed out of his disappointment of not being invited to Amitabh's son Abhishek's marriage to Aishwarya, despite invitations to his estranged uncle Bal and cousin Uddhav.

Responding to Raj's accusations, the actor's wife—SP MP Jaya Bachchan—said that they (Bachchans) were willing to start a school in Mumbai, provided the MNS leader donated the land build it. She told the media, "I heard that Raj Thackeray owns huge properties in Maharashtra, in Mumbai—Kohinoor Mills. If he is willing to donate land, we can start a school in the name of Aishwarya here." However, Amitabh abstained from commenting on the issue.

Bal Thackeray refuting the allegations said, "Amitabh Bachchan is an open-minded person, he has great love for Maharashtra, and this is evident on many occasions. The actor has often said that Maharashtra and specially Mumbai has given him great fame and affection. He has also said that what he is today is because of the love people have given him. The people of Mumbai have always acknowledged him as an artiste. It was utter foolishness to make these parochial allegations against him. Amitabh is a global superstar. People all over the world respect him. This cannot be forgotten by anyone. Amitabh should ignore these silly accusations and concentrate on his acting." According to some reports, Raj's censure of Amitabh, whom he supposedly admires, stemmed out of his disappointment of not being invited to Amitabh's son Abhishek's marriage to Aishwarya, despite invitations to his estranged uncle Bal and cousin Uddhav.

Besides making a hit jodi with the likes of Jaya Bhadhuri, Rekha, Zeenat Aman, Raakhee, Parveen Babi and Sridevi, Big B made a smashing pair with Dharmendra (Ram Balram, Sholay, Chupke Chupke), Vinod Khanna (Muqqadar Ka Sikander, Amar Akbar Anthony, Parvarish) and Shashi Kapoor (Kabhi Kabhie, Silsila, Deewar, Shaan, Trishul).

It was during the making of Sholay that Amitabh discovered he was going to be the proud father of his first-born, Shweta.

Son Abhishek may be similar in looks, but daughter Shweta is temperamentally similar to her father, according to Jaya.

For someone who is not a professional singer, Amitabh has sung quite a few hit songs. Witness: Mere Angne Mein (Laawaris), Rang Barse (Silsila), Mere Paas Aao (Mr Natwarlal) and Tu Maike Mat Jaiyo (Pukar) , to name a few.

Amitabh has been diagnosed with a nerve-related disease, Myasthenia Gravis, which has now been prognocised as Gullain Barre Syndrome.

He has a replica of himself sculpted and displayed at Madame Tussad's wax museum in London, placing him among the historical and entertainment Hall of Fame.

Amitabh was one of the first to come up with a music album AB Baby for his music company Big B music. He even appeared in an imaginatively shot video by Rakesh Mehra called Eir Bir Phatte, which was an instant hit.

BBC Online voted him Star of the Millennium, above Hollywood greats.

A trendsetter, Amitabh Bachchan made a path breaking entry in the world of television with the Indian remake of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire -- Kaun Banega Crorepati. Going by the astounding success of the show, a good move by the savvy Bachchan.

Amitabh tried his hand at politics in 1984. He won the Allahabad Parliamentary seat on a Congress ticket by a whooping number of votes.

AB loves gorging on gulab jamuns, especially from Jhama's in Chembur, Bombay.

Predictions of Amitabh Bachchan

Taking the Date of Birth as October 11, 1942 at 14.00 hrs in Allahabad (Uttar Pradesh), the horoscope has an exalted Jupiter with Rahu in Leo, Sun, Mars, Venus and Mercury in Virgo, Moon and Libra, Ketu and Aquarius and a retrograde Saturn in Taurus.

In my critical inquiry and examination with respect to the Bhrigu Technique and publications based on the collected information, my method of procedure or classification of prediction is based on the rotation of Jupiter coupled with an integrated approach of the Cuspal Lords/Sub Lords and their impact which blends the Prashar System along with it. For a detailed understanding of the system, my books written can be used for connecting and relating.

Separation of the whole into a part and examining the horoscope in the current circumstance the horoscopes’ reading of Shri Amitabh Bachan is based on my limited knowledge of the science which I pursued for two decades as a passion and the calls.

In the native’s horoscope, if Jupiter is rotated then from the period 60 to 72 it would be in Sagittarius. The depositor Jupiter, though exalted is placed in 8th, which signifies tensions, problems with Rahu in front of it in the house next to it. Rahu also signifies a situation where you are faced with a dead-end. To clarify these indications are more with respect to health and other live things. The exalted Jupiter with Rahu ahead of it also signifies gains and honor.

Coming to the present situation, the 64th year. As per my research of the Bhrigu System, Jupiter will be in Sagittarius for 12 years, if rotated, the 64th year would be that of Jupiter in Pisces for 2005-06. As said earlier, the period of 12 years is signified with the negativity of its depositor being placed in the 8th with Rahu ahead of it. But the current age of 64 has Ketu behind it and aspected by Sun, Mars, Venus and Mercury. The positive side of this is that KETU in 12th from it. Ketu represents medicine/cure shows no extreme negativity and the native will respond to the herbs/medicines.

On the other hand, the aspect of the four planets mentioned above where we can group Sun & Mars in one category and Venus & Mercury in other category could lead to the multiplicity in health problems. My view is that there could be blood pressure/heart related problems coupled with issues with respect to the nervous systems. Health would remain of matter of concern for the next four years. He will respond to treatment.

My conclusion is that the native would have to be careful of his health and more from a perspective of their multiplying in the areas of breath (asthma like situation) and issues related with respect to heart, lung and nervous system. By April 2006, he should be in a position to be back at work. He will see 2006 as a year of change and move towards completely to a new direction. Health will be a delicate issue in the area of concern but the year 2010-11 will be again a critical period

Amitabh Bachchan was born on October 11, 1942 in Allahabad. He is the son of late poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan and Teji Bachchan. Amitabh Bachchan did his schooling from Sherwood College, Nainital and later on pursued a degree in science from the Delhi University. His first job was in Shaw Wallace and later worked as a freight broker for a shipping firm called Bird and Co. But his destiny had something else to offer and it was the journey to stardom. He made his debut in the film Saat Hindustani (1969) which was directed by K.A. Abbas. Film failed on the box-office but Amitabh was noticed by film makers like Hrishikesh Mukherji and Sunil Dutt. Hrishikesh Mukherji (whom Amitabh treat as his Godfather),gave him a role in his two films, Anand and Guddi. Anand was the third film, which became a hit and he got best supporting actor filmfare award. Amitabh was getting the roles but they were not significant. Finally he got a chance to work in "Zanjeer", role for which he was not the first choice. Film turned out to be super-hit. By then a new avatar had emerged on silver screen, an "Angry young man". But this was his one aspect. He was a poet (Kabhi Kabhi), an decent professor (Kasme Vaade), a comedian (Chupke Chupke, Amar Akbar Anthony, Don), a dying lover (Mukaddar Ka Sikander).He did almost all kinds of roles. In 1973, after release of Zanjeer, Amitabh got married with Jaya Bhaduri. He became father at the time of release of Chupke Chupke. During the shooting of "Coolie" on 26th July 1982, he was injured and admitted to Breech Candy hospital. The whole nation prayed for his fast recovery and by the grace of God he was gifted with a new life. Mrs. Indira Gandhi, then P.M. of India, postponed her foreign trip and visited the hospital. After recovery Amitabh returned on silver screen, with Sharabi and Giraftar like hit movies. In the original script of "Coolie" Iqbal (Amitabh) had to die but Teji Bachchan asked Manmohan Desai to change it for her personal reasons. The last scene where he stands in the balcony and thank the people, was the real scene, a way to thank the people of India, "Main to chala gaya tha, laut aaya hoon to bus aapki duaon se...." Amitabh also tried his hand in politics in 1984 after the death of Mrs. Gandhi. He defeated the then called Chankya of the Indian politics, Hemvanti Nandan Bahuguna. But some how things went wrong and he got trapped in the dirty game of politics of anti-Rajiv Gandhi. Although during this period his classics "Main Azad Hoon" and "Agneepath" were released, but Amitabh was getting older. Amitabh decided to take a break in 1992, Khuda Gawah was the last release. He then launched ABCL which was a multi-faceted commercial enterprise. This was the major failure and he was surrounded by unthinkable debt. This is hard to imagine at that time how he survived but again he proved that he is not an ordinary man who live and die. With "Kaun Banega Crorepati" and "Mohabattein" he redefined his position in Indian cinema. Amitabh emerged again as a winner and slapped the critics who declared him "finished". Even in this age roles are written for him. Every film maker is dreaming to cast him in his/her film. He was declared as Star of the Millenium by BBC poll, by Stardust and even at the survey for statue at Madam Tusad. These are not mere coincident! May God bless him.

IMDb Mini Biography By: gavin (gunmasterM@hotmail.com)

Spouse

Jaya Bhaduri (3 June 1973 - present) 2 children

Trade Mark

His baritone voice.

Trivia

Arguably India's greatest ever superstar.

He launched a multi-faceted commercial enterprise known simply as Amitabh Bachchan Corporation Limited, or ABCL. ABCL is engaged in production, distribution and all other aspects of the movie industry.

Had a very close association with the former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and her son Rajiv Gandhi (also Prime Minister) and he was elected to parliament with a huge majority from his home town of Allahabad. But his stint in politics did not last long and he was implicated in the infamous Swedish Bofors Gun deal scandal along with Rajiv Gandhi, the U.K. based Hinduja brothers, and others.

Was one of the judges for the 1995 Miss World beauty pageant.

While filming Coolie (1983/I) he received a near fatal injury. He was hospitalised and the Indian press issued daily bulletins on his health.

Was a former stage actor, radio announcer and freight company executive in Calcutta, India.

Went to Sherwood College, a boarding school in the hill-station town of Nainital, and from there to Delhi University where he earned a double MA degree.

When he was just trying to get a break in movies he was told to soften his 'deep' voice. However it was soon realised that his deep rich voice was excellent for narration. He has provided narrations for several films.

Suffered from a rare muscular disorder known as myasthenia gravis.

Father of Abhishek Bachchan

Is a vegetarian

Presenter of Kaun Banega Crorepati, India's version of Who Wants to be a Millionaire

The first Asian actor having a wax model of his likeness displayed at Madame Tussaud's in London, UK

Once the highest paid Bollywood actor in the film industry.

Was named Actor of the Millennium in a BBC News Poll ahead of such luminaries as Charlie Chaplin, Sir Lawrence Olivier, and Marlon Brando.

Was considered 'finished' in the late nineties after super star status for 20 years, a string of flops and failed political and business ambitions. But made an unexpected comeback as host of the popular TV quiz series "Kaun Banega Crorepati?" (2000) which put him right back on the number one spot of Bollywood actors over 40, reaffirming his reputation as the living legend of Indian cinema with a new series of high profile films (Mohabbatein (2000), Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham... (2001) etc.)

Formed a popular screen couple with Rekha

He also sung in many movies such as Laawaris, Toofan and Silsila.

Became a grandfather in 1997 when his daughter Shweta gave birth to a daughter, Navya Naveli Nanda.

Works with the Indian government's media campaign to publicize the National Immunization Days and encourage people to take their children to be vaccinated against polio and other deadly diseases.

Son of Harivansh Rai Bachchan, who passed away in January 2003.

Suffers from asthma.

His favourite screen name is Vijay, which he had as his character name in over 20 movies.

His father Harivansh Rai Bachchan was considering naming him 'Inquilab' (which means 'revolution') before settling down for Amitabh which means 'brilliance unlimited'.

On his 61st birthday, he relaunched ABCL as AB Corp. ABCL had to be closed after debts of more than millions of rupees. However, Amitabh has decided to relaunch it with a name change.

Actress Nirupa Roy is mostly cast as his mother and last time she featured was in Lal Baadshah (1999).

Has a double M.A. (Master of Arts) degree.

The facial caricature of the Indian comic book character 'Supremo' is based upon him.

Following a near fatal accident while shooting Coolie (1983/I), during which he suffered internal bleeding and required 17 bottles of blood, he became a champion for the cause of encouraging more people to donate blood.

Singer Sudesh Bhonsle dubs his voice for playback songs in many movies.

At the age of 58, he jumped from a height of 30 feet, along with co-star Manoj Bajpai, for his 2001 movie Aks (2001).

In 1996, he released an album called "Aby Baby". This album was released under ABCL and featured songs like "Eer Bir Phatte" and remixes of his songs from his early movies "O Saathi Re" and "Kabhi Kabhi". "Eer Bir Phatte" was inspired by one of his famous dialogues in his movie _Adalat (1976/I)_.

In 1984, he was honored by the Indian government with the Padma Shri Award for his outstanding contribution to the Hindi film industry.

He is the only actor who achieved at least one hit every year for 15 consecutive years - from 1972 in Bombay to Goa (1972) to 1986 in Aakhree Raasta (1986).

He has played double and triple roles in a number of films. His double role starrers include _Adalat (1976/I)_, Don (1978), Kasme Vaade (1978), The Great Gambler (1979), _Bemisaal (1982)_, Desh Premee (1982), Satte Pe Satta (1982), Aakhree Raasta (1986), Toofan (1989), Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (1998), Lal Baadshah (1999) and Sooryavansham (1999). Mahaan (1983) had the superstar in a triple role.

He was closely associated with Indira Gandhi, the former Indian Prime Minister, and her son, Rajiv Gandhi. It was Mrs. Gandhi who wrote a letter of introduction for Amitabh, and that's how he got his break in Bollywood.

He was the original choice to play a role in Aapko Pehle Bhi Kahin Dekha Hai (2003), which he declined and was finally played by Om Puri

His survival and his success could in short be termed best in his wife's own words that "Amit ji is a loner !"

Although Amitabh Bachchan's Immaan Dharam (1977) proved to be a disaster, the producer went ahead and announced Asmaan with Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha, with Mohan Kumar in the director's seat. Salim-Javed, who had penned the script of Immaan Dharam, were scripting Asmaan as well. However, the film was shelved subsequently.

Rakesh Kumar, who had directed Khoon Pasina (1977), Mr. Natwarlal (1979), Do Aur Do Paanch (1980) and Yaarana (1981), had turned producer and announced Charlie, with Amitabh Bachchan enacting the title role. Padmini Kolhapure had been cast opposite the Big B. However, the project never got made.

Amitabh Bachchan and Dilip Kumar were seen on screen for the first time in Ramesh Sippy's Shakti (1982). But much before Shakti happened, Eagle Films had signed Dilip Kumar, Amitabh Bachchan and Amjad Khan for their new project, which was to be directed by Yash Chopra. However, the project did not materialize subsequently.

In 1976 Amitabh Bachchan was to star in Manoj Kumar's Naya Bharat, alongside Amitabh it was also supposed to star Manoj Kumar, Hema Malini, Rajesh Khanna, Shashi Kapoor, Shatrughan Sinha, Zeenat Aman and Rishi Kapoor. The film was shelved subsequently.

Amitabh Bachchan, Parveen Babi, Mithun Chakraborty and Rati Agnihotri were teamed in Tala Chabi, produced by Romu Sippy and directed by Raj N. Sippy. One of the foremost character actors then, Pran, had been signed to enact the main villain's role. An official announcement was made in April 1982. The movie never took off.

Amitabh Bachchan was supposed to play one of the lead roles in Shashi Kapoor's Utsav (1984) however; Amitabh opted out of the film. Shashi Kapoor replaced him.

Amitabh Bachchan was the first choice of Rakesh Roshan's King Uncle (1993). But since the actor wasn't signing films then, Roshan opted for Jackie Shroff.

Prakash Mehra was planning on making Chankaya Chanddragupta and had signed Amitabh Bachchan for the main role. The movie was shelved.

Vidhu Vinod Chopra wanted Amitabh Bachchan to play the lead role of Inspector Inayat Khan in Mission Kashmir (2000). The reason why Amitabh Bachchan declined the role was because of his commitment to Yash Chopra's Mohabbatein (2000).

Kader Khan wanted to direct him as the lead hero in Jaahil, unfortunately the movie was never made.

He hates the word Bollywood, the word that describes the Hindi film industry.

Is teetotal

On 31 October 2006, he shocked the unit of a forthcoming movie Shootout at Lokhandwala by recording 23 scenes in 5 hours. Achieving this feat was unheard of.

His daughter, Shweta, is married to Nikhil Nanda, who is the grandson of Raj Kapoor. (Raj Kapoor's daughter, Ritu, took on the last name of Nanda when she married Rajan).

His daughter, Shweta, was born on March 17th.

His mom, Teji Bachchan, passed away in Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India on December 22, 2007, after a prolonged illness, at the age of 93.

Has a mannequin of himself in Madam Tussaud's Museum in England. Along with Shahrukh Khan, Aishwariya Rai Bachchan and Salman Khan.

Suffers from vitiligo.

In the 2008 movie, Slumdog Millionaire, Amitabh Bachchan is the answer to Jamal's first question in the Indian version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? The question: Who was the star in the 1973 hit film Zanjeer? Through Jamal's flashbacks we get to see Amitabh Bachchan in action.

Personal Quotes

I have never really been confident about my career at any stage.

Everyone must accept "that we will age and age is not always flattering".

I wish I had time to learn all the languages of our country, I wish I knew how to play a musical instrument. There are many things that I feel I have missed out on.

(Referring to Abhishek Bachchan) "Like any other father I feel proud to see my son on the silver screen."

(When asked about his dancing with Shilpa Shetty in Lal Baadshah (1999)) "But I would dance with my daughter if I could. And if I can dance with Shilpa Shetty, then I will do that."

I have never been a superstar and never believed in it.

"The amount of things I have been through and the remarkable ways in which the body has reacted is just phenomenal. No wonder I became religious, because you don't know why something's happening to you and you don't know how you bounced back."

His thoughts on working in Hollywood: "You don't see Indians in Hollywood films around which a story can revolve. As soon as we have a social presence in your society, I am sure there will be many actors from our part of the world that will be acting in Hollywood films. I have always been a great admirer of Marlon Brando, Al Paccinno, Robert De Niro. I would love to walk into the frame, hold their briefcase!"

Brief details about Amitabh Bachchan Filmography:

Some of the blockbuster Amitabh Bachchan movies were Zanjeer, Sholay, Deewar, Yaarana, Trishool, Kabhi Kabhi, Amar Akbar Anthony, Don, Muqadar Ka Sikandar, Shehenshah, Coolie, Agneepath, Khuda Gawaah, Bade Miyan Chhote Miyan, Baghban, Mohabbatein, Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham, Bunty Aur Babli, Black, Sarkar and many more. Other notable Amitabh Bachchan films include Silisila, Kaala Paththar, Cheeni Kam, Anand, Satte Pe Satta, Chupke Chupke, Namak Haraam, Namak Halaal, Majboor, Mili, Naastik, Kasme Vaade, Dostana, Shaan and Laawaris. If you include other Amitabh Bachchan movies, Amitabh Bachchan filmography would cross 50 films mark.

Besides, Amitabh Bachchan films, Amitabh Bachchan profile would include his career as a politician, singer, television presenter, film producer and many more roles in his life. Amitabh Bachchan biography can be extended to:

Politics: 1984-1987 (contested election from Allahabad for Lok Sabha Seat and won by a record margin. His victory margin of 68.2 % is still the highest victory margin in general elections.)

Producer: 1996-1999 (As a producer, A.B.C.L. produced Tere Mere Sapne, which marked the acting career debut for Arshad Warsi and South Star Simran, 1996 Miss World Pageant, Mritydaat)

Television Presenter: 2000-2005 (Hosted game show Kaun Banega Crorepati – Season 1 and Season 2. Also hosted Junior KBC)

Playback Singer: Sang in many Hindi movies like The Great Gambler, Mr. Natwarlal, Laawaris, Naseeb, Silisila, Mahaan, Pukar, Sharaabi, Toofan, Jaadugar, Khuda Gawah, Major Saab, Sooryavansham, Aks, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Aankhen, Armaan, Baghban,Dev, Aitbaar, Baabul, Nishabd, Cheeni Kum, and Bhoothnath.

On March 23, 2008 more than a month and half after Raj's remarks, Amitabh finally spoke out in an interview to a local tabloid saying, "Random charges are random; they do not deserve the kind of attention you wish me to give." Later on March 28, at a press conference for the International Indian Film Academy, when asked what his take was on the anti-migrant issue, Amitabh said that it is one's fundamental right to live anywhere in the country and the constitution entitles so. He also stated that he was not affected by Raj's comments.

Amitabh Bachchan