Bollywood's Bachchan in hospital

Fans a temple in Ahmadabad prayed for Bachchan's good health


Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan is in a stable condition in a Mumbai hospital after being admitted with acute abdominal pains.

Officials said he was responding to treatment and had a "restful night" after being admitted to hospital on Saturday, his 66th birthday.

Earlier in the day, fans crowded outside Bachchan's home with flowers and banners to mark his birthday.

Known as the "big B", Bachchan has starred in over 150 films in 30 years.


Bachchan was helped by his daughter Shweta into the ambulance
He had been working on Hindi film Teen Patti - Three Cards - until Friday.

"The medication has worked on him and doctors are pleased with his recovery," hospital spokesman Mohan Rahan said, adding he could be out in a few days.

His son and fellow actor, Abhishek Bachchan, told reporters on Saturday that his father was suffering from an "intestinal obstruction", and asked fans to pray for his speedy recovery.

Indian media showed Bachchan being taken to hospital on a stretcher, and fans and reporters maintained an overnight vigil outside the hospital.

Bachchan underwent surgery for an intestinal condition at the same hospital in 2005.

Earlier this year, Bachchan, who starred in legendary Hindi movie Sholay and hosted India's version of Who Wants to be a Millionaire?, appeared on stage with his family in a London showcase for Bollywood stars.