Udaipur, April 9, 2025: Jaya Bachchan is often seen as an irritable person today. Many times, she gets angry at the media, shares her views in Parliament, or speaks her mind on various issues. But there was a time when Jaya was cast in films to bring gentleness to the screen. She added a calm and graceful presence to movies and was among the top choices of filmmakers. No matter what people think of her today, Jaya was one of the most successful heroines of the 1980s. Apart from her films, she is also known for the love triangle involving her, Amitabh Bachchan, and Rekha. However, few people know that it was Jaya who supported Amitabh during the low phase of his career. When no actress was ready to work with him in flop films, Jaya stood by his side.

Jaya Was a Successful Actress in the 70s and 80s

Jaya Bachchan's acting journey began in 1963 with Satyajit Ray’s Bengali film Mahanagar. Later, she made her Hindi film debut with Guddi in 1971, which was a big hit. After that, she appeared in several successful films during the 70s and 80s. Some of her popular movies include Uphaar, Jawani Deewani, Bawarchi, Ek Nazar, Koshish, Anamika, Phagun, Zanjeer, Abhimaan, Kora Kagaz, Sholay, Naukar, and Silsila.

Although Jaya took a break from acting after marrying Amitabh Bachchan in 1973, she returned occasionally. She played supporting roles in films like Fiza, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Desh, Kal Ho Naa Ho, Paa, Ki & Ka, and Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani.

Jaya Helped Save Amitabh’s Career

In the early 70s, around 12 of Amitabh Bachchan’s films flopped. Due to this, no actress wanted to work with him. On the other hand, Jaya was giving hits like Bawarchi and was one of the top heroines of that time.

Filmmaker Prakash Mehra wanted to cast Amitabh in Zanjeer. Amitabh even told Jaya that if this film flopped, he would leave the industry. Jaya then said she would agree to do Zanjeer if Prakash Mehra asked her. Amitabh passed the message to Prakash, and finally, Jaya was cast opposite him.

Zanjeer became a superhit. Tickets worth ₹5 were sold for ₹100. The film revived Amitabh’s career and helped him become a superstar. A big part of that success is credited to Jaya.

Amitabh and Jaya’s On-Screen Chemistry

The couple worked together in many memorable films:

• Ek Nazar (1972)
• Piya Ka Ghar (1972)
• Bawarchi (1972)
• Zanjeer (1973)
• Abhimaan (1973)
• Mili (1975)
• Sholay (1975)
• Chupke Chupke (1975)
• Silsila (1981)
• Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001)
• Paa (2009)
• Ki & Ka (2016)

The Love Triangle That Caught Public Attention

Jaya gave many hit films, but her personal life has also been in the spotlight. One of the biggest topics was her love triangle with Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha.

There was a time when Amitabh, Jaya, and Rekha were good friends. But things changed after a few events. One of the most talked-about moments was Rishi and Neetu Kapoor’s wedding, where Rekha appeared wearing sindoor. At that time, rumors about Rekha and Amitabh’s affair were strong. This love triangle still interests fans even today.

Jaya’s Journey Into Politics

Jaya Bachchan faced many ups and downs in her life, but she never let them stop her. Today, she lives a happy life with Amitabh and is also active in politics.

She joined politics in 2004 and is a senior leader of the Samajwadi Party. She has been a Rajya Sabha MP five times. Jaya is known for her strong opinions and bold statements.

Though she is often seen getting angry at the media today, people still remember the time when she was the first choice of filmmakers for soft and graceful roles.