Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who turned 83 on October 11, 2025, recently reminisced about a humorous and revealing moment involving his wife, Jaya Bachchan, during a special episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati 17. The episode, filmed a day before his birthday, featured Amitabh alongside veteran writer-lyricist Javed Akhtar and actor-director Farhan Akhtar, providing a nostalgic trip down memory lane and some personal anecdotes from his illustrious film career.

One of the highlights of the episode was Amitabh recalling the reaction of Jaya to his superhit song “Mere Angne Mein” from the 1981 blockbuster Laawaris. In a lighthearted confession, Amitabh revealed how the song had once prompted his wife to storm out of the theatre, showcasing her candidness and assertiveness—a trait he affectionately described as her “typical wife trait.”

The ‘Mere Angne Mein’ Incident

During the conversation, Farhan Akhtar asked Amitabh to name one habit of his that his wife dislikes, prompting the veteran actor to share the anecdote. Amitabh said, “It doesn’t matter what the story, actress, or film is, if she doesn’t like something, she says it directly.” He then recounted the incident on the set of Laawaris, where he had an idea to dress up as all the women described in the lyrics of ‘Mere Angne Mein’, ranging from short, plump, petite, to tall.

“When we had the trial screening of the film, the song started playing, and Devi ji (Jaya) got up and walked out of the theatre. She didn’t like the song at all and scolded me thoroughly. She said, ‘How could you ever do a song like this?’” Amitabh laughed as he recalled the incident, describing it as a perfect example of Jaya’s direct and no-nonsense approach, even when it came to his professional choices.

Revisiting the Song Years Later

Amitabh also shared a lighthearted moment from 15 years later, when he performed the song at various award functions. During these performances, women representing the types mentioned in the lyrics would come on stage to dance with him. Some hugged him, others kissed him, adding a playful, interactive element to the live shows.

However, when it came to the “short” part of the song, Amitabh jokingly said, “I told them not to call anyone because I already had one,” referring to Jaya. During the performance, he lifted her in his arms for the lyrics “Godh mein utha lo, bachche ka kya kaam hai” (Lift her in your lap, she’s as light as a child). Amitabh recalled that while the mic was on, he thought she might add a witty line herself. Instead, she was busy wiping the lipstick marks off his cheek, perfectly exemplifying what he called her typical wife trait—prioritizing propriety and personal boundaries while playfully keeping him in check.

A Timeless Partnership

The chemistry between Amitabh and Jaya has been widely celebrated, both on-screen and off. The couple first met at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune, where they forged a deep friendship. Their bond gradually blossomed into love during the making of the film Guddi (1971), and it was further strengthened on the sets of Zanjeer (1973), the movie that catapulted Amitabh to stardom. That same year, Amitabh and Jaya decided to formalize their relationship and tied the knot on 3 June 1973 in an intimate ceremony attended by close friends and family.

Over the decades, their relationship has remained strong and steady, weathering the highs and lows of Bollywood life. Both have supported each other through numerous professional milestones and personal challenges. Their collaboration has also extended to several iconic films, including:

• Sholay (1975): A landmark in Indian cinema, featuring unforgettable characters and dialogues.
• Abhimaan (1973): A film exploring the nuances of marital dynamics and personal ambition.
• Chupke Chupke (1975): A classic comedy showcasing the lighter side of life and relationships.
• Mili (1975): Amitabh starred opposite Jaya in this romantic drama.
• Silsila (1981): A film that brought real-life complexities into cinematic storytelling, where the couple’s on-screen rapport captivated audiences.
• Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001): A multi-generational family drama that remains beloved by fans across generations.

Life Beyond Films

Together, Amitabh and Jaya have raised two children: Shweta Bachchan Nanda and Abhishek Bachchan, who have also carved their own paths in the realms of business, media, and film. Shweta is a prominent author and entrepreneur, while Abhishek has made a mark as an actor in Bollywood, continuing the family legacy.

Amitabh and Jaya’s marriage has often been cited as an example of enduring companionship in an industry notorious for short-lived relationships. Their partnership combines mutual respect, humor, and personal boundaries, qualities that Amitabh’s anecdote about ‘Mere Angne Mein’ exemplifies in a lighthearted yet telling way.

Reflections on Marriage and Career

During the KBC episode, Amitabh’s reflections on Jaya highlighted the balance between professional ambition and personal life. The story of the song incident underscores how the couple manages to navigate differences with humor and respect. While Jaya did not appreciate his artistic choice during the trial screening, her actions years later, when they performed the song together, reflect acceptance and playful engagement, demonstrating the maturity of their relationship.

Amitabh also took the opportunity to celebrate Jaya’s candid nature, describing how her willingness to express her opinions openly, even in the early years of his career, has kept him grounded. This openness, he implied, is an essential ingredient of their long-lasting bond.

Fan Reactions and Nostalgia

Fans of Amitabh and Jaya were quick to react to the anecdote, sharing nostalgic memories of Laawaris and other films where the couple appeared together. The story of Jaya storming out of the theatre sparked amusement and admiration, with social media buzzing over the charm and humor of this personal revelation. Many fans expressed delight at seeing a candid glimpse into the couple’s life beyond the glitz of Bollywood, appreciating their enduring partnership and sense of humor.

The incident also sparked discussions about the role of wives in supporting yet critiquing their spouses. Amitabh’s playful acknowledgment of Jaya’s “typical wife trait” resonated with many viewers, highlighting a relatable aspect of marital life: balancing personal boundaries with shared experiences and humor.

Legacy of Amitabh and Jaya

Amitabh Bachchan’s career, spanning more than five decades, has been marked by iconic performances, awards, and a global fan following. Jaya Bachchan’s contributions to Indian cinema are equally significant, with critically acclaimed roles and a distinct presence in both films and public life. Together, they represent a golden era of Bollywood, where talent, professionalism, and personal values intersect.

Their story, punctuated by anecdotes like the ‘Mere Angne Mein’ theatre incident, serves as a reminder that even in the lives of superstars, ordinary human emotions, humor, and interpersonal dynamics play a central role. The interplay of creativity, critique, and compromise in their relationship exemplifies how love, respect, and a sense of humor can sustain a marriage over decades.

Conclusion

As Amitabh Bachchan celebrated his 83rd birthday, the memories shared on KBC, including Jaya’s candid reaction to a playful song, offered fans an intimate glimpse into the life of one of Bollywood’s most enduring power couples. The story not only provided laughter but also underscored the importance of honesty, humor, and mutual respect in relationships, qualities that have allowed Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan to remain united and admired by generations of fans.

Their journey—from meeting at FTII, to collaborations on landmark films, to building a family and legacy—remains an inspiration, with stories like these bringing a human touch to the lives of larger-than-life stars.

---