Birthday Special: Jaya Bachchan, a legacy of endearing characters

As the actor-turned-politician Jaya is set to ring her 75th birthday on Sunday, let’s revisit some of her notable works which can initiate conversation till date.

Abhimaan

Directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee, this movie is considered one of the milestones in the career of the Amitabh-Jaya pairing. Known for its evergreen music, this movie shows the conjugal tension which stems from show business. Amitabh, Jaya, Govardhan Asrani, Bindu Desai acted in the movie.

Mili

Another movie by Hrishikesh Mukherjee, where Jaya Bachchan was cast opposite Amitabh. The story centres around a reclusive, depressed man who falls in love with a bubbly young woman. Later he found that she has cancer.

Koshish

Directed by Gulzar, this movie puts forward a sensitive subject. A speech and hearing-impaired couple persists through unforgiving obstacles to be accepted by society and live a life of dignity. Jaya and Sanjeev Kumar brought these characters to life on the screen.

Guddi

What is fandom if there’s no craziness involved? Another gem by Hrishikesh Mukherjee, where Jaya is mesmerised by the screen-avatar of Dharmendra and hence the woman is reluctant to marry the man chosen by her family.

Chupke Chupke

In this comic caper of an ensemble cast, Jaya shined in her own right. Directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee, the movie featured Dharmendra and Sharmila Tagore alongside Jaya and Amitabh.

From the 70s to the post-2000 period, Jaya has been working relentlessly. Karan Johar’s favourite on-screen mom (Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham, Kal Ho Naa Ho) will be next seen in his directorial ‘Rocky Aur Rani ki Prem Kahani’.