By Shishir Prashant 
PrashantNews
Amitabh Bachchan, one of Indian cinema’s biggest superstars, turned 84 on Sunday, marking another milestone in a career that has spanned nearly six decades and seen him rule the big screen, enter Parliament and become the face of television’s most popular quiz shows.
Born in Allahabad on October 11, 1942, Bachchan began his film career with Saat Hindustani in 1969. His breakthrough came with Zanjeer (1973), which established him as Hindi cinema’s iconic “angry young man” — a defiant, intense hero who struck a chord with audiences during a period of social and economic discontent.
The success of films such as Deewaar, Sholay, Don, Trishul, Muqaddar Ka Sikandar and Kaala Patthar turned him into a phenomenon in the 1970s and 1980s. His commanding screen presence, distinctive baritone and powerful performances earned him the titles “Big B”, AB and “Shahenshah of Bollywood”.
At the height of his popularity, Bachchan made an unexpected move into politics. He contested the 1984 Lok Sabha election from Allahabad on a Congress ticket and defeated veteran politician H.N. Bahuguna by a huge margin. However, he resigned from Parliament in 1987, bringing his brief political career to an end.
Bachchan later reinvented himself through television. In 2000, he began hosting Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC), the Indian version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? His warmth, wit and ability to connect with contestants helped make the show a household favourite and revived his career during a difficult period.
At 84, Bachchan continues to host KBC and remains an enduring presence in Indian entertainment. His journey from film superstar to parliamentarian and television icon reflects a rare ability to reinvent himself across generations.