In a light-hearted moment during a Rajya Sabha session on Friday, Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan introduced herself as “Jaya Amitabh Bachchan,” drawing a hearty reaction from Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar. The playful incident stood out, particularly since Bachchan had previously expressed discomfort with being addressed by her husband’s name.
The unexpected self-introduction led to laughter from Dhankhar and several MPs, including Congress’ Jairam Ramesh and Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) Raghav Chadha. This brief, humorous exchange brightened the session, showcasing the camaraderie among the members.
Bachchan jested, “Did you get a lunch break today? No? This is why you’re taking Jairam Ji’s name repeatedly. You cannot digest your food without taking his name.”
Dhankhar, enjoying the banter, responded, “I’ll tell you on a light-hearted note. I did not take a lunch break today, but I had lunch with Jairam ji,” which further entertained the house. He added, “I also want to tell you that this might be the first time that I am both yours and Amitabh ji’s fan.”
This exchange follows an earlier session on July 29, where Bachchan objected to being addressed as “Jaya Amitabh Bachchan” by Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh. She had firmly stated, “Sir, only Jaya Bachchan would have sufficed,” emphasising her concern about women being identified solely by their husband’s names.
Bachchan expressed her discontent during that session, saying, “This is something new, that women will be recognised by the name of their husbands like they have no existence or achievements of their own.”
Jaya Bachchan
Jaya Bachchan, an influential figure in both cinema and politics, married megastar Amitabh Bachchan on June 3, 1973. The couple has two children, Shweta Bachchan Nanda and Abhishek Bachchan, and has acted in several iconic films together, including Zanjeer, Sholay, Abhimaan, Mili, Chupke Chupke, Silsila, and Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham.
Since entering politics in 2004, Bachchan has been a vocal advocate for women’s rights and various social issues, leveraging her platform to drive meaningful change. Her playful exchange in the Rajya Sabha serves as a reminder of her dynamic presence both in politics and beyond.
