Mumbai, Oct 11 (IANS): The Shahenshah of Bollywood, Amitabh Bachchan, celebrated the morning of his 72nd birthday by cutting a cake with mediapersons here Saturday, which also happens to be Karwa Chauth. But unlike every year, he isn't fasting this time due to health issues.

A packed media conference at his office Janak here saw Big B looking fresh and radiant in a bright orange kurta, designed by Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla.

Talking about his day's plan, Amitabh said: "It's been a simple day. Today morning I went to (my home) Prateeksha and took my parents's blessings. I still feel they are in Prateeksha with us. I generally take their blessings daily before I leave for work.

"Today I will be spending my day with my family."

The Big B usually fasts on Karwa Chauth -- a festival when married women fast without food and water from sunrise to moonrise for their husband's well-being -- but this year, he has not observed it.

"This year I am not fasting due to health issues. I have to take some medicines. All the women in the house are fasting and will break their fast in the night. Then we shall all have dinner together," he said.

At his age, Amitabh is one of the busiest stars of Bollywood. He hosts "Kaun Banega Crorepati", has a couple of films in his kitty and also involves himself with philanthropic causes.

When asked what keeps him so energetic and lively, he said: "I don't know whats the reason behind it...you will have to ask my parents. I think it's genetic! I also feel blessed to receive my fans's wishes and blessings."

The son of late poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan, Big B is married to actress Jaya Bhaduri. They have two children -- daughter Shweta and son Abhishek; and grandchildren Navya-Naveli, Agastya and Aaradhya.

Aaradhya is Abhishek's daughter with wife Aishwarya Rai.