Amitabh Bachchan was so popular in Egypt that Bollywood films were restricted in 1987; when Big B arrived in Cairo in 1991, it triggered a ‘national crisis’ in the country

In the 1980s, Indian cinema faced restrictions in Egypt as its popularity surged. Amitabh Bachchan's films, particularly Mard, gained remarkable acclaim among Egyptian fans. His visit to Cairo in 1991 sparked a frenzy that was likened to a national emergency. Bachchan's songs and films captivated audiences, transcending the language barrier. This extraordinary admiration culminated in him being honored with the Actor of the Century award in 2001.