New Delhi: Amitabh Bachchan, one of India’s most iconic and enduring actors, has shaped Hindi cinema for over five decades. With an extraordinary range of performances, he has left an indelible mark on generations of audiences. Rising to fame in the early 1970s with films like Anand and Zanjeer, he soon delivered a string of classics including Deewaar, Sholay, and Don—each one reinforcing his status as a cultural phenomenon.
Born on October 11, 1942, Bachchan redefined versatility in Indian cinema. From his impeccable comic timing in Chupke Chupke and Amar Akbar Anthony to his romantic charm in Silsila and Kabhi Kabhie, he proved time and again that he could transcend the boundaries of his “angry young man” image.
His later performances in Mohabbatein, Black, Paa, Piku, Pink, and Jhund further highlighted his ability to reinvent himself. Whether playing the irritable yet lovable father in Piku or the stern, justice-driven lawyer in Pink, Bachchan has consistently demonstrated his depth and adaptability as an actor.
Beyond Bollywood, the megastar has also made his mark in regional cinema with notable roles in the Gujarati comedy-drama Fakt Purusho Mate, the Telugu sci-fi epic Kalki 2898 AD, and the Tamil action-drama Vettaiyan alongside Rajinikanth.
As he turns 83, Amitabh Bachchan continues to inspire and mesmerize fans across the globe. Here’s a look at five of his most memorable performances that showcase his unmatched talent and timeless appeal:
Zanjeer (1973)
Bachchan’s journey to superstardom began with Zanjeer, which introduced his legendary “angry young man” persona. As Inspector Vijay Khanna, he brought an unprecedented intensity to the screen. The film’s gripping story, powerful dialogues, and emotional core catapulted him to nationwide fame.
Deewaar (1975)
Written by Salim–Javed and directed by Yash Chopra, Deewaar remains a cornerstone of Indian cinema. Bachchan’s portrayal of Vijay Verma—a man torn between morality and survival—is one of his most defining performances. The line “Aaj mere paas maa hai” continues to resonate as one of the most iconic moments in film history.
Sholay (1975)
In Sholay, released the same year as Deewaar, Bachchan played Jai, one half of the unforgettable duo with Veeru (Dharmendra). His understated yet powerful performance, combined with impeccable chemistry with the ensemble cast, helped make Sholay one of India’s greatest cinematic masterpieces.
Don (1978)
Don showcased Bachchan’s magnetic screen presence and his ability to effortlessly portray dual roles—the suave, ruthless crime boss and his naive doppelgänger, Vijay. With its sharp dialogues and thrilling twists, Don remains a cult classic that has inspired multiple remakes across decades.
Kalki 2898 AD (2024)
Even after five decades in the industry, Bachchan continues to push creative boundaries. In Nag Ashwin’s futuristic sci-fi epic Kalki 2898 AD, he plays Ashwatthama—a role lauded for its gravitas and emotional intensity. Sharing the screen with Kamal Haasan, Prabhas, and Deepika Padukone, Bachchan once again proves that his charisma and talent are timeless.
