MUMBAI: Megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who underwent a surgery for an abdominal problem a few months back in a Mumbai hospital, says he never chose to go abroad for his treatment as he trusts Indian doctors.

“I did have the means to travel abroad and perhaps get the best form of treatment, but it is my faith and trust in the medical doctors of our country, India, that kept me here and I still continue to have that faith,” the 70-year-old said here Thursday at the launch of a mobile diabetes van.

Amitabh, who celebrated his milestone birthday Thursday, has faced various health problems ever since his accident on the sets of “Coolie” in 1982.

He suffered from cirrhosis of the liver in 2010, and underwent two abdominal surgeries in February this year.

He thanked all doctors who have helped him sail through tough times.

“I am eternally grateful to the medical profession, medical doctors and team at hospitals that have looked after me through all my ailments,” said the megastar, who is active and raring to go even at 70.

Mobile diabetes unit in Big B’s name

A mobile diabetes unit has been launched in the name of megastar Amitabh Bachchan, which will conduct free diabetes tests.

It was launched by the living legend himself on his 70th birthday, Thursday.

“Inaugurated ‘Amitabh’ the mobile diabetes unit from Silver Star, the noble charitable organisation that I patronise, in Mumbai…,” Big B tweeted.

“Free diabetes tests conducted by these mobile units… proud to be associated with it in patron, and to contribute for its extension,” he further posted.

Later in the day, Amitabh also inaugurated an exhibition of his 70 paintings and said he is overwhelmed by the gesture.

“And later an exhibition of 70 paintings by the most eminent artists of India, in remembrance of my birth and contribution…Just so overwhelming!!

(Photo by: Kaushik Naik/SOLARIS IMAGES)