The love story of superstar Amitabh Bachchan and actress Jaya Bachchan, spanning over four decades, is one of Bollywood’s most iconic romances. Their relationship which blossomed in the early 1970s faced its share of challenges from the beginning. Not everyone supported their union, including Jaya’s close friend Rajesh Khanna.
According to reports, Rajesh Khanna expressed reservations about Jaya’s association with the rising star. On the sets of the 1972 film “Bawarchi”, Rajesh Khanna reportedly insulted and ignored Amitabh Bachchan when he visited Jaya Bhaduri. Despite Rajesh Khanna’s advice to Jaya to stay away from Amitabh, Jaya neither listened to him nor let his behaviour affect her growing connection with Amitabh.
Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya first met on the sets of Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s film “Guddi” in 1972. Amitabh, who was then a rising star, was fascinated by Jaya after seeing her in a magazine ad. This initial curiosity turned into admiration as they started working together. Jaya, on her part, was impressed by Amitabh’s lineage, being the son of renowned poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan. Over time, she sensed something special in him, believing that he was destined for greatness in Indian cinema.
As the two spent more time together, particularly during the filming of “Ek Nazar” in 1972, their bond deepened. Jaya was the first to feel a romantic connection, while Amitabh gradually realised his feelings for her. Their mutual admiration soon evolved into love, setting the stage for a lifelong partnership.
Before the release of Amitabh’s breakthrough film “Zanjeer” in 1973, the couple’s relationship took a significant turn. Amitabh planned a trip to London with his friends and wanted Jaya to accompany him. However, his parents, adhering to traditional values, insisted that the couple marry before the trip. Respecting their wishes, Amitabh wasted no time and proposed to Jaya. She agreed immediately, marking the beginning of their journey as a married couple.
On June 3, 1973, surrounded by close family and friends, Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan tied the knot. Their wedding was a simple affair but it marked the start of a marriage that has lasted for over four decades, inspiring generations with their love, commitment and respect for each other.
