1. Vijay Verma in Deewar (1975)
- Why it’s memorable: This role established Amitabh as the “Angry Young Man” of Bollywood. The iconic “Mere paas maa hai” dialogue from the film is etched in Indian cinema history.
- Character: A dockworker-turned-gangster battling moral and familial conflicts.
2. Jai in Sholay (1975)
- Why it’s memorable: Playing the quiet and brooding Jai, Amitabh gave a subtle yet powerful performance in this legendary multi-starrer. His camaraderie with Dharmendra’s Veeru and tragic death remain unforgettable.
- Character: A courageous and loyal ex-convict turned vigilante.
3. Anthony Gonsalves in Amar Akbar Anthony (1977)
- Why it’s memorable: His comic timing and flamboyant personality in this masala entertainer were a stark departure from his intense roles. The mirror scene and the title song are iconic.
- Character: A lively, street-smart Christian raised away from his biological family.
4. Vijay Dinanath Chauhan in Agneepath (1990)
- Why it’s memorable: Amitabh won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his gritty portrayal of a vengeful son. His deep, gravelly voice and intense dialogue delivery became legendary.
- Character: A man driven by revenge and redemption, standing against injustice.
5. Subhash Nagre in Sarkar (2005)
- Why it’s memorable: Amitabh channeled Marlon Brando’s The Godfather in this political thriller. His understated performance as a powerful patriarch anchored the film.
- Character: A morally ambiguous political leader.
6. Dr. Bhaskar Banerjee (“Babu Moshai”) in Anand (1971)
- Why it’s memorable: Though he was in a supporting role, his portrayal of a stoic doctor who befriends a terminally ill patient (Rajesh Khanna) left a lasting impact.
- Character: A compassionate doctor grappling with loss and hope.
7. Vijay Khanna in Zanjeer (1973)
- Why it’s memorable: This role was a game-changer for Amitabh, establishing him as a superstar. His intense portrayal of a no-nonsense police officer became the blueprint for action heroes in Bollywood.
- Character: A tough, honest cop seeking revenge for his parents’ murder.
8. Shekhar Malhotra in Kabhi Kabhie (1976)
- Why it’s memorable: Amitabh displayed his romantic side in this poignant family drama, proving his versatility as an actor.
- Character: A poet who struggles with unfulfilled love and its impact on his life.
9. Auro in Paa (2009)
- Why it’s memorable: Playing a 12-year-old boy with a rare genetic disorder (Progeria), Amitabh stunned audiences with his transformation and emotional performance. He won a National Award for this role.
- Character: A lovable, curious, and wise child navigating life and relationships.
10. Narayan Shankar in Mohabbatein (2000)
- Why it’s memorable: His role as a strict principal who clashes with Shah Rukh Khan’s character added gravitas to this romantic drama.
- Character: A disciplined, authoritarian figure softened by his buried grief.
11. Deepak Sehgal in Pink (2016)
- Why it’s memorable: Amitabh’s portrayal of a retired lawyer who defends three young women in a sexual harassment case was powerful and relevant. His delivery of the line “No means no” became a cultural statement.
- Character: A principled lawyer fighting for justice.
12. Eklavya in Eklavya: The Royal Guard (2007)
- Why it’s memorable: His intense portrayal of a royal guard torn between duty and morality earned critical acclaim.
- Character: A loyal servant to a royal family, hiding dark secrets.
13. Bhashkor Banerjee in Piku (2015)
- Why it’s memorable: As a quirky, hypochondriac father, Amitabh added humor and heart to this slice-of-life film, earning accolades for his nuanced performance.
- Character: A cantankerous yet endearing father dependent on his daughter.
Amitabh Bachchan’s career is a treasure trove of diverse and memorable performances, making him a legend who continues to inspire generations of filmmakers and audiences alike.
