When Jaya Bachchan's father praised Amitabh Bachchan for allowing her to use her maiden name Bhaduri after marriage

In a time when women were expected to adopt their husband's surname after marriage, Amitabh Bachchan set an example by allowing his wife, Jaya Bachchan, to retain her maiden name, Bhaduri, for her professional career. This decision, which was quite progressive for the 1970s, was appreciated by Jaya’s father, Taroon Coomar Bhaduri, a prominent journalist and writer. In an article written in 1989, Taroon Coomar Bhaduri reflected on Amitabh Bachchan’s support and shared insights into how this decision exemplified his son-in-law’s character and respect for his wife’s individuality.

The Name Incident

After Jaya and Big B tied the knot in 1973, the actress continued to work in films, using her maiden name, Jaya Bhaduri, in movie credits. This decision sparked discussions, as it was customary for married women to adopt their husband’s surname, especially in the entertainment industry.

In his article for 'The Illustrated Weekly of India', Taroon Coomar Bhaduri described an incident where someone, attempting to flatter Amitabh, suggested that Jaya should now be billed as "Jaya Bachchan" rather than "Jaya Bhaduri."

Amitabh Bachchan, with calm assertiveness, replied, "Of course, she is a Bachchan, but you should know that in the industry and professionally, she is more famous as Jaya Bhaduri." This response highlighted Amitabh Bachchan's belief in Jaya's professional achievements and the recognition she had built under her maiden name. His understanding of her individual identity within her career was rare at the time and demonstrated his respect for her independence.

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Taroon Coomar Bhaduri's Admiration for Amitabh

Jaya’s father, Taroon Coomar Bhaduri, expressed his admiration for Amitabh in his article, dismissing any rumors that he or his family were against the marriage. He shared how Amitabh’s respect for Jaya’s professional identity resonated deeply with him and his family.

"I would like to know just one good reason why my wife or I would have been opposed to the Bhaduri-Bachchan alliance," Bhaduri wrote. He went on to say that Amitabh Bachchan was a lovable man who had worked hard to establish himself in the film industry. “Initial failures did not deter him, and with a teutonic doggedness, he pursued his career,” Bhaduri said.

Taroon Coomar Bhaduri emphasized how much his family respected his son-in-law's values. “Apart from my wife and I, my elderly parents too, not only joined in the marriage celebrations but blessed all the three couples and this, in view of scores of invitees.” Bhaduri’s reflections reveal the deep mutual respect between the two families, highlighting Big B’s character as both a loving husband and a respectful son-in-law.

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The Wedding Priest’s Objections

While the families were united in their support of the marriage, they did face some challenges, particularly regarding their inter-caste union. Jaya’s family, being Bengali Brahmins, had to deal with objections from their wedding priest. The Bengali priest initially protested the marriage, as Amitabh was neither Bengali nor Brahmin. This issue, however, was resolved through Amitabh Bachchan’s persistence and respectful attitude.

Taroon Coomar Bhaduri shared how Amitabh Bachchan had contacted Jaya’s mother and called both families to Bombay to arrange for a “secret marriage” on June 3, 1973. The ceremony took place at a family friend’s flat on Malabar Hill. “The Bengali priest (who was located with great difficulty) at first protested against having to preside over a marriage between a Bengali Brahmin (Jaya) and a non-Bengali, non-Brahmin (Amit),” Bhaduri wrote.

After some hassle, the matter was resolved, and Amitabh Bachchan went through the marriage rituals, ensuring that he offended no one. “Amit went through all the rituals, offending no one, and the ceremony went on until early the next morning.”

A Legacy of Mutual Respect

The respect Amitabh and Jaya have for one another has been the cornerstone of their long-standing marriage. Jaya’s father noted this respect in his writing, showing that Amitabh’s progressive approach to marriage, family, and professional identity was what set their union apart in an era of more traditional values.

Amitabh and Jaya went on to have two children, Shweta and Abhishek Bachchan, and today, they are grandparents to three grandchildren. Despite societal pressures, Amitabh’s decision to honor his wife’s individuality by supporting her professional name choice has left a lasting legacy of mutual respect, not only in their family but also as an example for others.

Their marriage, now over 50 years strong, continues to be a symbol of understanding, respect, and equality. Through his actions, Amitabh demonstrated that true partnership in marriage is about celebrating each other’s successes while building a life together based on shared values.