London: Amitabh Bachchan added another feather to his cap when he became the first ever Indian filmstar to be conferred an honorary degree of Doctorate of Arts by a UK University in recognition of his distinguished career in films.
The De Montfort University of Leicester, Britain, conferred the degree on Big B on Wednesday. The event was also mentioned in a special motion in the British Parliament.
Amitabh Bachchan is scheduled to meet at least three leading members of Prime Minister Tony Blair's Government later this week.
"Amitabh Bachchan is a well-known figure in the creative industries and his energy and professionalism will be an inspiration to our graduates and students across the board, and especially to those wishing to pursue careers in the film sector," a spokesman of the De Monfort University said.
Former South African president Nelson Mandela was the last person to receive a similar recognition from the university for his charity work.
Earlier, in the early day motion (EDM) signed by about 100 British MPs, Bachchan was voted as 'the millennium's biggest star' by the British Parliament in recognition of his 'towering contribution to Indian cinema'.
The motion was moved by British MP Keith Vaz. An EDM is a British parliamentary device used by MPs to call for a debate on a particular subject.
The De Montford University attracts a considerable number of students from India ever year. Bachchan said he was deeply humbled by this recognition.
The megastar said his father Harivansh Rai Bachchan had done PhD in English Literature from Cambridge University way back in 1954 and was referred to as "Dr Bachchan" and whatever he is today is because of the academic influence of his parents on him.
Amitabh Bachchan, who arrived in Leicester on Tuesday accompanied by Samajwadi Party leader Amar Singh, is expected to call on Jack Straw, leader of the House of Commons, and other members of the Tony Blair Cabinet on Thursday.
To celebrate the honorary degree conferred upon Bachchan, Keith Vaz, MP, former minister for Foreign and Commonwealth office, will host a dinner at the House of Commons on Friday.
(with agency inputs)
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