His name meant 'the light that would never go off,' which was apt considering the superstardom he has enjoyed for much of his life now.

A young Bachchan came to Mumbai to try and gain a foothold in Bollywood. He wasn't considered lead material, but persisted anyway. When he finally clicked, he became far bigger than most big names before him.

The moniker Big B, then, was inevitable. Right through the mid-70s and 80s, Bachchan continued to shine, finding new generations of fans the world over, preparing for his eventual role as brand ambassador for the Indian film industry.

After a failed attempt at politics, it seemed as if retirement was an only option. Again, as if to prove how versatile he always was, Bachchan hit the small screen, changing the face of Indian television with Kaun Banega Crorepati.

Is there anything he hasn't done? Is there anything we can say that hasn't been said before? Let's just say, Happy Birthday, Mr Bachchan.

Also Read: The rebel without a cause

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