On March 27, 2025, veteran actress and Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan brought Bollywood into the heart of Indian politics by invoking the legacy of two iconic films—Deewar and Sholay—in the Rajya Sabha. Urging the Modi government to issue commemorative stamps to mark the 50th anniversary of these cinematic landmarks, she highlighted the cultural significance of preserving India’s film heritage. “The initiative would serve as a cultural bridge between generations, highlighting the importance of preserving Indian cinematic heritage and the role of cinema in shaping our cultural identity,” she stated.
Both Deewar and Sholay starred her husband, legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan. While Sholay became a cult classic with its gripping story of friendship and revenge, Deewar portrayed the gritty rise of an underworld figure, contributing significantly to Amitabh Bachchan’s iconic “angry young man” image.
Jaya Bachchan used this moment to also raise broader concerns about the struggles faced by the Indian film industry. During a discussion on the Union Budget 2025-26, she addressed Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman directly: “You have totally ignored one of the industries, the film industry, and sadly, past governments have done the same. But today, you have the opportunity to take it to the next level.”
She didn’t stop there. Warning of the industry’s decline, she pointed out the shrinking number of cinema-goers and the closure of single-screen theaters. “Today, single-screen theaters are shutting down. People are not going to movie halls because everything has become so costly. Perhaps you want to kill this industry altogether,” she remarked sharply.
Calling for urgent support, she made an emotional appeal: “I am speaking on behalf of my film industry. The audio-visual industry connects India to the world. Please have some mercy. You are trying to kill this industry. Please do not do this.”
Through her passionate speech, Jaya Bachchan brought attention to the need for government support for the entertainment sector—not just for its economic value but as a cultural pillar of India. Her request for Deewar and Sholay stamps stands as both a tribute to cinematic legends and a call to action for preserving the legacy and future of Indian cinema.
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