Amitabh Bachchan is India's number one Bollywood hero, appearing in more than 100 films over three decades. He made his name in the seventies as an action hero, but remains much loved today.
He was born in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh and became particularly known for thrillers like Sharaabi (1984) and Coolie (1983). When he was seriously injured during the filming of Coolie, much of the Indian public offered prayers for his recovery.
He retired from films more than 10 years ago. But after a stint in politics he is making a comeback with films like Lal Badshah (1998) and Mrityudaata (1997).
Bollywood Idol Fans of Indian film icon Amitabh Bachchan chant hymns while performing a traditional Hindu religious ceremony in front of a portrait of the actor in the eastern Indian city of Calcutta yesterday. About 25 members of the All Bengal Amitabh Bachchan Fan's Association chanted hymns as a mark of respect to the actor whom they consider to be an incarnation of God. PHOTO: REUTERS