Veteran actress and Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan has stirred controversy with her recent remarks about Akshay Kumar’s socially driven films, Toilet: Ek Prem Katha and Padman. During an appearance at the India TV She Conclave, Jaya Bachchan criticised these movies, not only branding them as “flops” but also expressing her disapproval of their titles.
Jaya Bachchan’s Statement
At the event, Jaya Bachchan openly questioned the naming of Akshay Kumar’s films, particularly Toilet: Ek Prem Katha. She remarked:
“Abhi aap naam bhi dekhiye toh mai aisi picturein kabhi na dekhu. Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, yeh koi naam hai? Yeh koi title hai? Please bataiye aap logo me se kitne log iss tarah ki title wali film dekhne jayenge.”
(Translation: “Just look at the name. I would never watch a film with such a title. Is this a title? Tell me, how many of you would watch a film with such a name?”)
She went on to assert:
“Picture flop hai” (It’s a flop film).
The Importance of Toilet: Ek Prem Katha
Released in 2017, Toilet: Ek Prem Katha was inspired by true events and aligned with Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, a government initiative to promote cleanliness and sanitation. The film starred Akshay Kumar and Bhumi Pednekar, focusing on the struggle of a woman who demands proper sanitation in her household.
The film received critical and commercial success, collecting over ₹216 crore worldwide. It was even praised by international figures, including Bill Gates, for its strong social message.
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Similarly, Padman, released in 2018, tackled menstrual hygiene awareness, a crucial yet often ignored topic in Indian society. The film was also well-received, earning over Rs 191 crores at the box office.
Internet Reacts to Jaya Bachchan’s Comments
Following Jaya Bachchan’s remarks, netizens and Akshay Kumar’s fans took to social media to defend the films.
Jaya Bachchan’s History of Controversial Statements
Jaya Bachchan has often made headlines for her fiery remarks. Whether it is her hostility towards the paparazzi or her strong political views, she remains an outspoken personality. However, her latest comments have alienated a section of the public who believe that films with social messages should be encouraged rather than mocked.
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