Early Life and Background:

 Birth and Family: Amitabh Bachchan was born on October 11, 1942, in Allahabad, Uttar
Pradesh, India. His father, Harivansh Rai Bachchan, was a renowned poet, and his mother, Teji
Bachchan, was a social activist. Amitabh was initially named "Inquilaab" after the popular
slogan "Inquilab Zindabad" used during the Indian independence movement, but later, on the
suggestion of filmmaker K.A. Abbas, his name was changed to "Amitabh," meaning "the light
that will never fade."
 Education: Amitabh attended Sherwood College in Nainital and later went to Delhi
University, where he studied at Kirori Mal College. Even during his academic years, he had an
interest in theater and was active in extracurricular activities. He participated in debates and
dramatics but never considered acting as a career until later in his life.
Struggles and Initial Career in Bollywood:
 Early Struggles: Amitabh moved to Mumbai in the 1960s with dreams of becoming an actor.
However, he faced a rough start in the industry. His first attempt to join the All India Radio as
an announcer was rejected because his voice was considered "too heavy." Undeterred, he
started working as a voice narrator for films.
 Breakthrough Role: Amitabh’s breakthrough came in 1969 with his role in Saat Hindustani,
directed by Khwaja Ahmad Abbas. Though the film was not a big hit, it introduced Amitabh to
the industry. His first major success came in 1973 with Zanjeer, where he played the role of
an angry young man, a character that would become his trademark.
Rise to Stardom:
 The Angry Young Man Persona: The 1970s marked the beginning of Amitabh’s rise to
stardom. Films like Deewaar (1975), Sholay (1975), and Trishul (1978) established him as the
quintessential "Angry Young Man," resonating with audiences who admired his defiance of
authority and social norms. Sholay, in particular, became one of the biggest hits in Indian
cinema and cemented Amitabh's position as one of Bollywood's leading stars.
 Popular Films in the 1970s and 1980s: Following his success with films like Muqaddar Ka
Sikandar (1978), Don (1978), Kabhie Kabhie (1976), and Amar Akbar Anthony (1977),
Amitabh became a household name. His dialogue delivery, powerful screen presence, and
versatility in playing diverse characters made him the most sought-after actor in Bollywood.
Peak Career and Icon Status:
 The Superstar Era: The 1980s saw Amitabh Bachchan reach the peak of his career with
multiple hit films, including Sharaabi (1984), Mister Natwarlal (1979), Coolie (1983), and
Silsila (1981). His unprecedented popularity earned him the title of "Angry Young Man" of
Indian cinema.
 The 1990s and Diversification: The 1990s marked a shift in Bollywood with changing
trends in storytelling, and Amitabh embraced new types of roles. He starred in films such as
Shakti (1982), Mard (1985), and Shahenshah (1988). Despite the changing film industry,
Amitabh adapted well, proving his versatility. The late 1990s also saw him in character-driven
roles, such as in Mohabbatein (2000) and Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (2006), where his
performances were widely appreciated.
Involvement in Television:
 Host of Kaun Banega Crorepati: In 2000, Amitabh made a significant leap to television as
the host of Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC), the Indian version of the game show Who Wants to
Be a Millionaire?. The show became a massive success, not just reviving his career but also
making him a household name across generations. His charisma, knowledge, and warm
demeanor made him an unforgettable host.
 Television and Social Impact: Amitabh’s association with KBC marked a pivotal moment in
his career, where his iconic status transcended the silver screen to make him a cultural
symbol of wisdom, integrity, and national pride.
Setbacks and Personal Challenges:
 Health Issues: In 1982, Amitabh Bachchan suffered a near-fatal accident while shooting for
the film Coolie. The accident left him hospitalized for several months, and his fans around the
world prayed for his recovery. His health problems, including his battle with asthma and a
later diagnosis of an intestinal infection, continued to affect his career. However, he came
back stronger each time, with his comeback in Shahenshah (1988) marking a milestone in his
journey.
 Bankruptcy and Career Low: In the late 1990s, Amitabh faced a financial crisis after his
business ventures, particularly his company ABCL (Amitabh Bachchan Corporation Limited),
collapsed. This was a challenging period in his life, but he made a remarkable comeback, both
in acting and television, which allowed him to regain his position as a major figure in Indian
cinema.
Revival and Current Success:
 Critical Acclaim in the 2000s: The 2000s saw a resurgence in Amitabh’s career, with
acclaimed performances in films like Black (2005), Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (2006), and
Chupke Chupke (2008). His role in Black, where he played a teacher to a deaf-blind girl,
earned him numerous awards and recognition from critics and fans alike.
 International Recognition: Amitabh’s contribution to cinema also earned him global
recognition. He starred in Hollywood films such as The Last Lear (2007) and appeared in
cameo roles in films like The Great Gatsby (2013). His presence in international cinema
allowed Bollywood to gain recognition on the global stage.
Philanthropy and Personal Life:
 Social and Humanitarian Work: Amitabh Bachchan has always been a supporter of
numerous social causes. He has worked with organizations like the Polio Eradication Program,
and he has also been involved with the support of education for underprivileged children. He
was appointed the UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador for Polio eradication.
 Family and Legacy: Amitabh’s son, Abhishek Bachchan, followed in his father’s footsteps,
becoming an actor. Amitabh’s daughter-in-law, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, is also a well-known
Bollywood actress and former Miss World. Together, the Bachchan family is regarded as one of
the most influential and respected families in the Indian film industry.
Awards and Recognition:
 National and International Awards: Amitabh has received numerous accolades
throughout his career, including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan,
which are India's highest civilian honors. He has also won multiple Filmfare Awards and is the
recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his contribution to Indian cinema.
 Cultural Influence: Amitabh’s influence extends beyond films. He is often called the “Voice
of India” due to his iconic baritone voice. His speeches and dialogues from films have been
widely quoted, and his persona continues to inspire generations.
Legacy and Continuing Influence:
 An Iconic Figure: Amitabh Bachchan's influence on Indian cinema is immeasurable. From
revolutionizing the portrayal of heroes in Bollywood to his remarkable range as an actor, he
set the standard for actors to come. His appeal transcends age and genre, and his impact on
cinema, culture, and social causes has earned him a permanent place in Indian hearts.
 Global Stardom: Amitabh continues to work on numerous projects, including television,
movies, and endorsements. He is revered as an elder statesman of Bollywood, and his
enduring popularity speaks volumes about his resilience, talent, and charm.

Amitabh Bachchan's life story is a testament to his dedication, talent, and unmatched charisma.
From his early struggles to becoming a cultural icon, his journey reflects the evolution of Bollywood
itself. With a career that spans more than five decades, he remains one of the most respected and
beloved figures in the entertainment industry worldwide.