Jaya Bachchan, an iconic figure in Indian cinema, has been a part of Bollywood’s glamorous world for decades. Her illustrious career and political engagement have not shielded her from controversies. Here’s a look at nine significant controversies involving Jaya Bachchan in the Bollywood realm:
The Aishwarya Rai Incident
Jaya Bachchan once reacted sharply when she overheard a paparazzi calling Aishwarya Rai by the nickname ‘Aish.’ She responded, “What’s Aish? Is she your school friend?” This comment sparked a media frenzy and led to widespread discussions about her behavior.
The “Housewife” Comment
Jaya Bachchan stirred controversy with her remarks about housewives, which many perceived as dismissive of homemakers. Her statements ignited debates on gender roles and societal expectations.
Jaya ‘Amitabh’ Bachchan
Recently, Speaker Harivansh addressed Jaya Bachchan as “Shrimati Jaya Amitabh Bachchan ji” while reading from a cue card. Jaya promptly responded that simply “Jaya Bachchan” would have sufficed. The speaker clarified that he used her officially registered name.
The “Divorce” Rumors
Speculation about a possible rift between Jaya and Amitabh Bachchan arose when Jaya was seen without her wedding ring. Despite the couple’s dismissal of the rumors, the media continued to buzz with conjecture.
First Public Kiss
In 2014, at the Like Ok Screen Awards, Amitabh Bachchan received the Lifetime Achievement Award, and his wife Jaya publicly kissed him in a rare display of affection.
Jaya’s Comment on SRK
After a dispute between Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai led to Rani Mukerji replacing Aishwarya in Chalte Chalte, Shah Rukh Khan made some critical remarks about Aishwarya. This led to a clash with Salman Khan. Jaya Bachchan, when asked about the situation, mentioned that although she was close to Shah Rukh Khan, she would have slapped him if he were at her home, like she would with her own son.
The “Cattle Class” Remark
In 2006, Jaya Bachchan’s comment about traveling in “cattle class” instead of business class was captured on camera. The remark, perceived as elitist, led to backlash and criticism regarding her sensitivity.
Rajya Sabha Decorum Issue
On August 9, Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar requested that Jaya Bachchan, a Samajwadi Party MP, maintain decorum in the House. This followed an incident where he referred to her as “Jaya Amitabh Bachchan,” which she found displeasing. Dhankhar’s response to her discontent was, “Don’t school me,” emphasizing that despite her celebrity status, maintaining decorum was essential.