When Jaya Bachchan got angry seeing husband Amitabh Bachchan in woman attire in Mere Angne Mein song

In the iconic film Laawaris, which released in 1981, Amitabh Bachchan delivered many unforgettable performances, but one particular song left a mark not just on the audience, but also in the hearts of those close to him. The song “Mere Angne Mein” was performed by Amitabh Bachchan himself, dressed in a woman’s attire, bringing humor and a touch of satire to the number. While this act was appreciated by many, it left his wife, Jaya Bachchan, fuming.

During an episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati, Amitabh Bachchan shared an anecdote about how his wife reacted to this song. Jaya, known for her straightforward nature, expressed her displeasure over Amitabh’s get-up as a woman. It wasn’t just the cross-dressing but also the mannerisms and the comical portrayal that she found objectionable. Jaya felt that the portrayal crossed a line of propriety and was not in alignment with the image she had of her husband.

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“Mere Angne Mein” became a huge hit, acquiring a cult status over the years. It stood out for its unconventional presentation, where Big B humorously described the flaws of women from different regions of India, all while dressed in an elaborate female costume. The song’s music, composed by Kalyanji-Anandji, and the lyrics, penned by Anjaan, were catchy, but it was Amitabh’s performance that made it memorable.

For Jaya Bachchan, the discomfort stemmed from watching her husband, a megastar known for his strong roles and dignified screen presence, indulge in an act that she perceived as beneath his stature. Her reaction was not about dismissing the humor but about maintaining a certain decorum that she believed should be upheld. In her view, the comedic portrayal in “Mere Angne Mein” bordered on mockery, which did not sit well with her.

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Despite her disapproval, the song became an integral part of Laawaris’s success. Amitabh Bachchan’s versatility was on full display, and his fans loved seeing this new facet of his talent. The scene, although controversial in Jaya’s eyes, became one of the most talked-about moments in Bollywood during that time.

Interestingly, this incident speaks volumes about the differing perspectives that individuals can have regarding performances and artistic expressions. For Jaya, Amitabh’s stint as a woman was jarring because it went against her perception of him, both as a husband and a public figure. For the audience, however, it was a refreshing and entertaining addition to his already illustrious career.

Laawaris, directed by Prakash Mehra, was one of the biggest hits of 1981. Apart from “Mere Angne Mein,” it featured other memorable songs such as “Kab Ke Bichhde Hue” and “Apni To Jaise Taise,” all contributing to the film’s massive success. Amitabh’s chemistry with co-star Zeenat Aman and his dynamic performance were instrumental in making the movie an all-time favorite. Even today, “Mere Angne Mein” remains etched in the memory of audiences, showcasing Amitabh’s willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of his craft.

In hindsight, while Jaya Bachchan may have initially disapproved of the song, it’s clear that “Mere Angne Mein” played a crucial role in solidifying Amitabh’s position as the superstar who could take risks and deliver impeccable performances, no matter the role or the attire.