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How Amitabh Bachchan heralded a new era in Bollywood with his Angry Young Man avatar

The legendary Amitabh Bachchan turns 82 today. While he is rightly known as the Shahenshah of Bollywood and is the most revered figure in the industry for his contributions to Indian cinema, it's essential to look back at the indelible mark he has left on the Indian film industry. Amitabh Bachchan, aka Big B, not only transformed the industry but also defined an era with his iconic Angry Young Man persona.

October 11, 2024 / 08:01 IST
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The legendary Amitabh Bachchan turns 82 today. While he is rightly known as the Shahenshah of Bollywood and is the most revered figure in the industry for his contributions to Indian cinema, it's essential to look back at the indelible mark he has left on the Indian film industry. Amitabh Bachchan, aka Big B, not only transformed the industry but also defined an era with his iconic Angry Young Man persona. This avatar, which became synonymous with his name, revolutionised Bollywood and set new standards for the film industry.

Rise of Angry Young Man

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The 1970s were a time of socio-political turmoil in India, where the issues of unemployment, corruption were widespread and the youth was disillusioned. Bollywood, that was a mirror of the society, was in search of a new hero—one who could channel the frustrations and aspirations of the common man. Enter Amitabh Bachchan. With his towering presence, brooding intensity, and impeccable acting prowess, Big B embodied this new archetype.

His onscreen transformation began with films like Zanjeer (1973), directed by Prakash Mehra. His role as Inspector Vijay Khanna, a man fueled by revenge and justice, struck a chord with audiences. His portrayal was raw, intense, and unflinchingly honest. The film's success marked the birth of the Angry Young Man, a character who would become a staple in Amitabh Bachchan's filmography.