Happy Birthday Amitabh Bachchan!

The original 'angry young man' might not be young in years anymore but the energy doesn't show any hints of depleting. One of the biggest brands in India, Amitabh Bachchan still dances and fights with the same gusto as his 25-year-old co-stars.

Born to illustrious parents Harivansh Rai and Teji Bachchan, on October 11, 1942 in Allahabad, Amitabh was first named Inquilab but was later re-christened with the name that has become one of the biggest brands in Indian cinema. His parents lovingly called him Munna while his friends prefer Amit.

Schooled at Nainital's Sherwood College, Amitabh then graduated with a bachelors in science degree from Delhi University's Kirori Mal College.

Bollywood's biggest superstar was apprehensive about joining films though during his school and college days he was fascinated with theatre. Recently, Amitabh played the role of a veteran thespian in The Last Lear, and the filmdom icon asserted that "the craft of a theatre actor is superior to that of a film actor."

Interestingly, someone who is touted as one of India's most accomplished actors, Amitabh was not trained to be an actor. During his school days he wanted to become an engineer and even thought of joining the Indian Air Force.