MUMBAI: Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray has demanded that the country‘s highest civilian honour, Bharat Ratna, should be conferred on Amitabh Bachchan.

Thackeray in his editorial peace in Samna said, "Bachchan is the last ‘Shahenshah‘ (emperor) of Bollywood. In many countries of the world, the people don‘t know who is the president or prime minister of the country, but they know Bachchan."

"He is a real jewel of India who has brought laurels to the country. Bachchan truly deserves the Bharat Ratna."

Praising the 69-year old mega star, Thackeray pointed out that some time ago, Lata Mangeshkar had also suggested Bachchan‘s name for the honour.

Thackeray‘s comments assume significance in view of the ongoing Marathi versus north-Indians debate kicked off by city Congress MP Sanjay Nirupam.