Madame Tussauds New York unveils Amitabh Bachchan wax figure

A life-like wax figure of Amitabh Bachchan has been unveiled at the newly launched 'Bollywood Zone' in Madame Tussauds at Times Square here, enabling visitors to have a feel of a Bollywood film set with the legendary star of Indian movies.

Dressed in a traditional black Sherwani suit with a gold and black scarf draped around his neck, 66-year-old Bachchan's wax figure is the first to be part of Madame Tussauds New York's all-new Bollywood Zone, which was created after numerous visitor requests.

The brightly-coloured, fully-interactive Bollywood Zone will include a replica of the Taj Mahal, videos of authentic Indian dancers and a photo area where visitors can pose as Bollywood stars, designed to re-create the experience of being on a Bollywood film set with Bachchan.

"Over the coming years, we plan to expand the area to include figures of other prominent Bollywood stars," Madame Tussauds New York said in a press release.

The wax figure of Bachchan was unveiled as five Bollywood dancers, dressed in colourful Lehenga skirts, performed and taught 20 middle school students traditional Indian dance at the "Bollywood Bash".

In a statement, general manager of Madame Tussauds Janine DiGioacchino mentioned the growing influence of Bollywood as the world audience become more and more familiar with the industry which has started producing international stars.

"We are thrilled to welcome Amitabh Bachchan to his new home in Madame Tussauds," DiGioacchino said.

Bachchan is one of India's most renowned and beloved celebrities, having starred in, directed and produced more than 45 films.