Ever wondered what Amitabh Bachchan reads? Here are 6 books he has personally recommended

For decades, Amitabh Bachchan has captivated audiences with powerful performances on screen, but away from the spotlight, he has nurtured another lifelong passion: reading. Born to celebrated Hindi poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan and social activist Teji Bachchan, the veteran actor has often spoken about the transformative power of books. Over the years, he has shared several titles that left a lasting impression on him, ranging from history and economics to mythology, memoirs and coming-of-age guides.

Here are six books Amitabh Bachchan has personally recommended and why they earned a place on his reading list.

The Anarchy by William Dalrymple

The Anarchy by William Dalrymple explores the extraordinary rise of the East India Company from a trading corporation into one of the most powerful political forces in history. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, the book traces how a private company gradually took control of large parts of the Indian subcontinent, reshaping its political and economic landscape. Filled with vivid anecdotes and historical insights, it presents a gripping account of ambition, commerce and empire while offering readers a deeper understanding of colonial India's past.



During the COVID-19 lockdown, Amitabh Bachchan shared on social media that he was reading The Anarchy as part of the #MyBookMyFriend campaign. Quoting Stephen King's famous line that "books are a uniquely portable magic," he described the book as a fascinating and fast-paced account packed with anecdotal details about the East India Company. He added that William Dalrymple aptly called it the world's biggest corporate takeover.

Talking to My Daughter: A Brief History of Capitalism by Yanis Varoufakis

Talking to My Daughter: A Brief History of Capitalism by Yanis Varoufakis simplifies one of the world's most complex subjects: capitalism. Originally written in Greek, the book explains economic concepts such as banking, debt, production, surplus and markets in language that is accessible even to readers with no formal background in economics. Rather than relying on technical jargon, it uses stories and everyday examples to help readers understand how economies function and why these systems influence everyone's daily lives.

Sharing the book on Instagram, Amitabh Bachchan quoted the saying that a room without books is like a body without a soul before revealing he was reading Talking to My Daughter during lockdown.

He described it as a simple, accessible and comprehensive explanation of how a capitalist economy works. Bachchan praised the author's ability to explain difficult economic models in language everyone could understand. He highly recommended the book to readers who wanted to participate in conversations about the economy, contribute meaningfully to society or simply educate themselves on how economic systems operate. He also highlighted the book's message that understanding the economy is essential for anyone who wants to have a say in humanity's future.

Head Held High by Vishwas Nangre Patil

Head Held High is the memoir of Vishwas Nangre Patil, one of India's most respected police officers. The book chronicles his journey from a modest upbringing to becoming an Indian Police Service officer while reflecting on leadership, discipline, integrity and public service. It also recounts his role during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, offering readers an inside look at the pressures and responsibilities faced by law enforcement officers during one of India's darkest moments. The memoir combines personal experiences with lessons on resilience, courage and commitment to duty.

While recommending the book, Amitabh Bachchan described Vishwas Nangre Patil as "an officer and a gentleman." Referring to the officer's role during the 26/11 attacks, he praised his courage when duty called him to defend the city. Bachchan also highlighted the Maharashtra Police motto, "Sadrakṣaṇāya Khalanigrahaṇāya" meaning "To protect good and destroy evil," saying the book keeps that spirit alive.

Suheldev by Amish

Suheldev by Amish Tripathi is a historical novel based on the legendary Indian king Suheldev, who is believed to have defeated the invading forces of Salar Masud in the 11th century. Blending historical events with fiction, the novel explores themes of leadership, courage, unity and sacrifice. Known for his fast-paced storytelling, Amish brings to life an often-overlooked chapter of Indian history while presenting a tale of heroism, strategy and patriotism.

When the book was released, Amitabh Bachchan enthusiastically recommended it on social media. He described Amish as an irrepressible writer whose books are impossible to put down once started. Speaking about Suheldev, he said there was a scramble in his own home to get hold of a copy, reflecting just how eagerly it was being read.

Paradise Towers by Shweta Bachchan Nanda

Paradise Towers marks the fiction debut of Shweta Bachchan Nanda. Set inside a Mumbai housing society, the novel follows the interconnected lives of its residents, exploring relationships, secrets, aspirations and the everyday realities of urban life. Through multiple perspectives, the story paints a rich portrait of contemporary India while examining family bonds, ambition, identity and the emotional complexities hidden behind ordinary lives.

For Amitabh Bachchan, recommending this book was also a deeply personal moment. Sharing his pride after receiving the novel from his daughter, he wrote that holding her first authored book felt similar to holding her when she was born. He described the publication as the birth of a creative talent and offered his prayers and blessings for her literary journey.

What's Up With Me? by Tisca Chopra

What's Up With Me? by Tisca Chopra is an educational guide written primarily for adolescent girls navigating the physical, emotional and psychological changes of puberty. Covering topics such as body image, friendships, menstruation, emotions, confidence and self-awareness, the book aims to answer questions that young readers may hesitate to ask elsewhere. Written in a friendly and reassuring tone, it encourages healthy conversations while helping teenagers better understand themselves during a period of significant change.

Amitabh Bachchan praised the book in a personal letter to Tisca Chopra. He wrote that he was certain it would help young girls better understand and cope with the confusing and often contradictory experiences of adolescence. He described the book as informative and said it complements every learning environment, appreciating its potential to educate and support young readers.