Akshay Kumar responds to Jaya Bachchan’s Toilet: Ek Prem Katha remark: Agar unhone kaha hai...

Akshay Kumar reacts to Jaya Bachchcan controversial statement

Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar recently responded to veteran actress and politician Jaya Bachchan's critical remarks about the title of his 2017 film Toilet: Ek Prem Katha.

While speaking at an event, Akshay was asked about her disapproval, and he offered a calm, respectful reply.

He mentioned, “Agar unhone kaha hai to sahi hi hoga. Agar Toilet: Ek Prem Katha jaise film bana kar maine kuch galat kiya hai, toh agar vo keh rahi hain, toh sahi hi hoga, ["If she has said it, then it must be right. If making a film like Toilet: Ek Prem Katha was wrong on my part, then if she's saying so, it must be right."] he said, choosing not to escalate the situation.

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Jaya Bachchan had expressed her discontent at the India TV She Conclave, where she questioned the sensibilities behind naming a film Toilet. “Aap naam dekhiye, Toilet: Ek Prem Katha—yeh koi title hai? Aisi filmein main kabhi na dekhun. Aap hi bataiye, kitne log aise title wali filmein dekhne jayenge? ["Just look at the name—Toilet: Ek Prem Katha—is that even a title? I would never watch such films. You tell me, how many people would actually go to watch a film with a title like that?"] she said, implying that the film’s name lacked dignity and appeal.

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Despite the criticism, Toilet: Ek Prem Katha was both a critical and commercial success. Based on true events, the movie tackled the real-life issue of lack of sanitation facilities in rural India.

It aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, a nationwide campaign promoting cleanliness and the construction of toilets across the country. The film starred Akshay Kumar and Bhumi Pednekar, with Bhumi playing a woman who refuses to live in a house without a proper toilet, prompting a social awakening in her village.

The movie grossed over ₹216 crore globally and was widely appreciated for bringing attention to a crucial social issue. It even received praise from international figures like Bill Gates, who lauded its strong messaging around public hygiene and women's rights.