Mumbai, Jan 26 (IANS): Megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who was named for one of the highest civilian awards of the country, Padma Vibhushan, says he is humbled and honoured by the recognition.

The screen icon, who has gathered love and appreciation from all quarters in his over four decade-long career span, also thanked his fans for making him what he is today.

The awards were announced Sunday night on the eve of the 66th Republic Day.

“The Government of India has decorated me today with the highest Padma Award of the country, the Padma Vibhushan... I have no words to express my gratitude to the powers that be and am most humbled and overwhelmed by the generosity of the people that decide or sit on judgment on this,” the 72-year-old posted on his official blog srbachchan.tumblr.com.

Amitabh, who is known as the Shahenshah of the Hindi silver screen, went on to mention that with this honour his family hold seven such awards.

“In the family now we have a combined list of 7 such awards of the highest National acclaim...My Father (Harivansh Rai Bachchan): Padma Shree, Padma Bhushan. Jaya: Padma Shree. Aishwarya: Padma Shree. AB: (Amitabh Bachchan) Padma Shree, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan (sic),” he wrote.

The actor, who has delivered exceptional performances in movies like “Deewaar”, “Agneepath”, “Sholay”, "Don", “Black” and “Paa”,, said he feels “blessed” by the appreciation.

“In one family this must be perhaps the only reference or case in the country. I feel blessed and honoured, fortunate and humbled, overwhelmed and submerged by the affection and love of the people,” he added.

This year, the thespian will continue to regale Bollywood lovers with movies like “Shamitabh”, “Piku” and “Wazir".