Jaya Bachchan, a stalwart of Indian cinema, is renowned not only for her formidable acting skills but also for her candidness and unfiltered opinions. In a memorable interview on the chat show hosted by renowned fashion designers Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla, she delved into her parenting style, revealing a striking distinction between her roles as a mother and a mother-in-law. Her revelations about being strict with her son, Abhishek Bachchan, while adopting a more lenient approach toward her daughter-in-law, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, sparked much interest.
When prompted by Abu Jani about the rumors surrounding her strictness as a parent, Jaya straightforwardly confirmed, “Very strict.” This admission set the stage for a deeper exploration of her family dynamics. However, when the conversation shifted to her role as a mother-in-law, Jaya’s response was enlightening. She remarked, “Strict? She’s not my daughter. She’s my daughter-in-law. Why should I be strict with her? I’m sure her mother has done that for her.” This statement encapsulates her belief that the relationship between a mother and daughter-in-law is inherently different from that between a mother and daughter.
Abhishek Bachchan, who married Aishwarya Rai on April 20, 2007, has often shared his own perspective on Jaya's parenting style. In a 2023 interview with Zoom, he countered the notion that his mother is strict, saying, “Contrary to public opinion, my mother is not strict.” This divergence in views between mother and son reflects the nuanced understanding each has of their family dynamics.
Jaya further elaborated on her feelings about the distinctions between her daughter and daughter-in-law. She stated, “There is a difference between a daughter and a daughter-in-law, you know. I mean, I don’t know why, but you don’t feel you need to respect your parents. With your in-laws, you can’t do that.” Her words resonate with many who navigate similar family structures, highlighting the intricate layers of relationships that exist within families.
Her perspective has also evolved over the years. Reflecting on her identity, Jaya said, “And later on, things change – because today, I feel more a Bachchan than a Bhaduri.” This statement is particularly poignant, revealing her journey of embracing her identity within the Bachchan family since her marriage to Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan in 1973. It speaks to the generational shift in attitudes toward familial roles and the evolution of her own self-perception.
In the realm of cinema, Jaya Bachchan continues to make her mark. Her most recent role as a matriarch in Karan Johar's successful film Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani showcases her enduring talent and ability to connect with audiences across generations. The film also featured a stellar cast, including Alia Bhatt and Ranveer Singh, further emphasizing Jaya’s relevance in contemporary Bollywood.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
