Amitabh Bachchan, the Shahenshah of Bollywood, celebrates his 83rd birthday today, marking over five decades of an illustrious career that has redefined Indian cinema. Born on October 11, 1942, in Allahabad (now Prayagraj), Uttar Pradesh, to renowned Hindi poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan and social activist Teji Bachchan, Amitabh has built an unparalleled legacy as one of the most revered actors in the world.
Early Struggles and Breakthrough
Bachchan’s film career began in 1969 as a voice narrator in Mrinal Sen’s “Bhuvan Shome,” followed by his acting debut in “Saat Hindustani” the same year. After a letter of introduction from then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, he secured his break in Bollywood, though initial success remained elusive. His first breakthrough came in 1973 with “Zanjeer,” directed by Prakash Mehra, where he played Inspector Vijay Khanna, a role that transformed him into Bollywood’s iconic “angry young man”.
The Golden Era of the 1970s-1980s
The 1970s witnessed Bachchan’s meteoric rise to superstardom with a string of blockbuster action films. Collaborating with legendary screenwriting duo Salim-Javed, he delivered landmark films including “Deewaar” (1975), “Sholay” (1975), considered a milestone in Indian cinema, and “Don” (1978). His “angry young man” persona resonated deeply with audiences, portraying brooding figures at odds with society, ranging from disaffected dock workers to cynical gunslingers confronting rural bandits. The 1980s continued this success with hits like “Deewar,” “Agneepath,” “Dosti,” “Shaan,” “Ram Balram,” “Naseeb,” and “Laawaris”.
Return to Success in the 2000s
After navigating career challenges, Bachchan made a remarkable comeback in 2000 with “Mohabbatein,” earning his third Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor. He successfully reinvented himself as an elder patriarch in family dramas like “Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham” (2001) and “Baghban” (2003), while also delivering critically acclaimed performances in “Aks” (2001), “Aankhen” (2002), and “Khakee” (2004). Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s “Black” (2005), where he portrayed an aging teacher of a deaf-blind girl, won him his second National Film Award for Best Actor and widespread critical acclaim.
Television and Modern Relevance
Perhaps his most transformative decision came in 2000 when Bachchan agreed to host “Kaun Banega Crorepati” (KBC). This risky move revolutionized Indian reality television and allowed him to transition from larger-than-life heroism to becoming “the man who spreads knowledge on TV”. At 83, he continues hosting KBC Season 17, which premiered in August 2025, demonstrating his enduring appeal across generations. His ability to adapt from 70mm Bollywood action to a subtle television presence has enabled him to remain relevant in an era dominated by Gen Z audiences.
Net Worth and Financial Empire
Amitabh Bachchan’s financial success matches his cinematic achievements. According to 2024 reports, his personal net worth stands at approximately Rs 273.74 crore, while his combined wealth with wife Jaya Bachchan totals Rs 1,578 crore. In the financial year 2024-25, he reportedly earned Rs 350 crore, making him one of India’s highest taxpayers. His income streams include acting fees, brand endorsements, interest, rent, dividends, capital gains, and revenue from a solar power plant. The Hurun India Rich List estimates his family’s wealth at around Rs 1,600-1,630 crore.
Assets and Properties
The megastar owns an impressive collection of 16 luxury vehicles, including a Bentley Continental GT, Range Rover Autobiography LWB, Lexus LX 570, Mercedes GL63 AMG, Porsche Cayman S, and a vintage Ford. His iconic Juhu residence “Pratiksha” is valued at Rs 50 crore, and he jointly owns property with son Abhishek Bachchan in Juhu’s Kapol Housing Society worth Rs 45 crore. Additional properties include two residences in Oberoi Seven, Goregaon (valued at Rs 20 crore and Rs 9.5 crore), properties in Pawna, Pune, and international real estate in France.
Family Legacy
Married to veteran actor and politician Jaya Bachchan (née Bhaduri) since June 3, 1973, the couple has two children, Shweta Bachchan Nanda and actor Abhishek Bachchan. Abhishek is married to actor Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, continuing the Bachchan family’s cinematic legacy across generations. The couple appeared together in multiple successful films during the 1970s, including “Abhimaan” and “Namak Haraam,” for which Amitabh won the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor.
As the legendary actor turns 83, his journey from struggling newcomer to the Shahenshah of Bollywood remains an inspiration, demonstrating an unmatched ability to evolve while maintaining relevance across changing times and audiences.
