Amitabh Bachchan's Journey Before Filmmaking

Before becoming the iconic Bollywood actor known as 'Hitman Bachchan,' Amitabh Bachchan had a diverse and multifaceted career. Born on October 11, 1942, in Allahabad, India, he was born into a family with a rich literary and artistic heritage. His father, Harivansh Rai Bachchan, a renowned poet, played a significant role in shaping his early interests.

Education

Amitabh's educational journey took him from Sherwood College in Nainital to the University of Delhi, where he graduated with a degree in Arts. During his college years, he was actively engaged in extracurricular activities such as drama and debating. These experiences provided him with a foundation for his later career in acting.

Early Career

Post-graduation, Amitabh Bachchan worked as a shipping utive at the Shaw Wallace Company in Calcutta (now Kolkata) for a brief period. This job did not align with his passion for the arts, prompting him to explore opportunities in acting. He also worked as a business utive for Bird and Company in the same city before finally seeking opportunities in the entertainment industry.

All India Radio Experience

Before making his film debut, Bachchan gained valuable experience in public speaking and voice modulation by working as a voice narrator for All India Radio in Calcutta. Despite his initial failed attempt to become a news reader in All India Radio, Delhi, he persevered and continued to hone his skills in this field.

Transition to Bollywood

Bachchan's transition to films was gradual and marked by several challenges. He entered the world of Bollywood with a recommendation letter from former Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi. He starred in 12 consecutive flops, but fate had other plans. His breakthrough came with the release of Zanjeer in 1973. This film, directed by Shakti Samanta, catapulted him to stardom and revolutionized the Indian film industry. Less than two weeks after its release, Bachchan became the 'Super Star' of Bollywood and has remained at the top of the industry ever since.

While he has achieved immense commercial success and critical acclaim, Bachchan has also faced his fair share of financial challenges. At the age of 58, he faced bankruptcy and was buried in a debt of 90 crores ($130 million). Despite these trials, he has managed to bounce back and has made a substantial amount of money, ranging from more than 3500 crores ($500 million). In 2022, Bachchan made the big decision to bid farewell to KBC, an Indian version of the popular quiz show, and continue his legendary career in Bollywood.

Amitabh Bachchan's journey from a diverse background of shipping and radio to becoming a Bollywood super star is a testament to his resilience and dedication to his craft. His multifaceted career, filled with diverse experiences, laid the foundation for his iconic status in the film industry.