One of India’s biggest film stars has been recognised by Queensland University of Technology.

Amitabh Bachchan, who first gained popularity in the early 1970s as the ‘angry young man’ of Hindi cinema, today received QUT’s highest honorary award.

Ellie Whitton reports.

TRANSCRIPT

Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan was awarded the title of Doctor of the University from QUT at a private ceremony at Old Government House.

Amitabh Bachchan, Bollywood Film Star: “Who would have thought a student and then a graduate, not extraordinary by any stretch of the word, would someday be accorded such an overwhelming recognition.”

Mr Bachchan was recognised for his outstanding contribution to creative industries over several decades and is only the second person from India to receive this honour.

Fresh off the set of Baz Luhrman’s The Great Gatsby he said he’s not sure if he deserves the award but is grateful to QUT.

Amitabh Bachchan Bollywood Film Star: “To find myself in a foreign country and to have this recognition from them is truly a great honour and I do not have enough words to thank QUT for having bestowed me with this great honour.”

QUT’s Vice Chancellor says Mr Bachchan embodies the theme of creative industries at QUT and is the most significant Indian film industry name to come to Australia.

Professor Peter Coaldrake, QUT Vice-Chancellor: “The towering contribution he has made to his craft, his industry and I think if you listened to his speech today the underpinning message was a message about the fundamental importance of education.”

Fans lined up outside for hours hoping to catch a glimpse of their idol and were not disappointed.

Vox 1: He is the king of Bollywood and that’s why we’re here. From our childhood we have adored him as the greatest actor in Bollywood ever.”

Mr Bachchan will launch an international travel bursary at QUT in the name of his late father.

The bursary will allow QUT students to visit Indian institutions in the creative entertainment and cultural sectors for study or research.

Ellie Whitton, QUT News.