Why we love Amitabh Bachchan

Because his super stardom transcends the test of time or theory.

Because the man inspires grace, refinement, professionalism and eloquence.

Because he's an all-star whether the accomplishment requires him to act, advertise or anchor.

Because he seems so composed in face of unceasing, unprecedented attention and adulation.

Because of his enthusiastic, spontaneous and descriptive manner of social networking.

Because he can, can and does.

Because I love the way he says, 'Dadoo tum?'

Because whether he's Vijay, Amit, Babumoshai, Kaalia, Jai, Sikandar, Sukumar, Arjun Singh, Don, Natwarlal, Shahenshah, Sarkar, Anthony, Ajooba or Auro, Big B's a one-man army of entertainment.  

Because who else in the world can talk, walk or laugh English?

Bottom line is, I love Amitabh Bachchan. And, to no one's surprise, so do you.

We asked you, dear readers, to tell us in not more than 150 words your reasons for loving Hindi cinema's beloved icon who turns a year older today. As it turns out, limiting affection to such a small number isn't a fair deal, is it?

While the outpour of emotion was most overwhelming and winsome, we can only pick 10 best entries. Here it is then, in no particular order, 10 of the best responses from the lot.

'He walks that extra smile.'

Gomathi Mohan's fond message for Bachchan brims with affection and praise:

He comes out as a real human with all the qualities of head and heart, intact, not dented by the forgeries of time. He knows to respect people as they are; his tone and eyes give it all out. Even a child can make out how genuine his intentions are. One can see the faithful son, dutiful husband, proud father, loving grandpa and a ferocious possessiveness for his family, which is everyone's dream (to become all that), is what endears me.

A totally balanced mind, highly intelligent, beautiful sense of humour. He walks that extra mile. Kaun Banega Crorepati is, probably, his best show on earth, making a difference in so many lives.

'Giving the younger actors a run for their money'

He/she doesn't leave his name, signing in as Guest, the sentiments echoed in this anonymous tribute are too heartfelt to ignore.

Not only is he a Super Star but a great human being. His restlessness to achieve perfection and never-say-die attitude is a lesson for everyone. At this age where even government employees and politicians are retiring, this man is giving the younger actors a run for their money by showcasing his talent and proving his mettle against all odds.

So what some of his movies have not worked? So what if his ambitious projects like ABCL didn't become successful? Each time the critics write him off, he rises back like a phoenix.

'He is a world legend'

Fans of the actor are never out of compliments. Sreemanta Sinha is no different.

I love Mr Amitabh Bachchan because he is the greatest star in world film history bar none. He is a powerhouse of talent, which he has proved time and again. He is extremely well-behaved and has always cleared his name from any wrong-doings.

He is charitable without blowing his own trumpet. How many know that he had adopted a village after the Latur earthquake?

He is a world legend.

'They copy him but can never be like him'

Shah Rukh Khan in Don or Hrithik Roshan in Agneepath can try but Big B is simply inimitable, believes Anand Lakshman.

I love Amitabh Bachchan because he is a legend, a fighter and, at the same time, so humble. He connects with people across all ages, languages, religions and regions. He is the most versatile actor and the biggest star of our country and our continent and, I am sure, of the world.

A great icon, who everyone respects, takes inspiration from and looks up to.

The man who had every right to be pompous and self admiring but never chose to do so; stayed humble and respected others. Remained punctual and fought every failure.

When he speaks you just can't ignore but listen, unarguably the best orator. His command over Hindi and English is magical with that great baritone.

His movies are like our daily meals, telecast every single day on any one or more channels. They copy him but can never be like him. He is the best and then follows the rest.

'Rest all are paani kam chai in front of Big B'

Kamlesh Modha says it like it is.

It's, like, compulsory to love him. You cannot hate the greatest actor on earth. Rest (of Bollywood's leading men) are like paani kam chai (pale) in front of him.

'He is the best'

Manoranjan Das keeps it short and sweet.

Happy Birthday, Sir.

I love him because he is the best among all the actors on reel as well as off reel. The way he lives his life is truly inspirational to many of us.

'So humble...'

Atul Khare recalls his first impressions of the star in person.

I, once, had an opportunity to watch him (on the sets) of KBC as (part of the live) audience. I witnessed his humility when a lady was finding it difficult to sit on the 'Hot Seat.'  Finally, when she managed, her sandal fell down. Mr Bachchan bent down and lifted the sandal and helped her to wear it.

He is just so great, humble and kind hearted.

'The A to H of awesomeness'

Abhijit Maity gets creative applauding the merits of AB.

I love Amitabh (Bachchan) because he is an:
A-ctor
M-agnified
I-n
T-alent
A-ppeal
B-oldness
H-umanity

'October 11 is my birthday too'

Apart from being a huge fan of his performances, Debendra Mallick appreciates how sharing his birthday with Bachchan ensures everyone remembers to wish him without fail.

There are so many reasons. He is undoubtedly the best actor, in all kind of characters. He is still giving his best, even at 69.

But the most important thing is, October 11 is my birthday as well. And because of him alone, this particular date is remembered by so many people.

'He's touched so many of us '

The angry young man of the 1970s continues to be everyone's favourite. George Thomas reminds us why. 

He is an institution by himself. A towering personality and a voice which can never be paralleled, AB has touched so many of us through the various characters he portrayed.

Happy Birthday to our living legend!!