Veteran actress Jaya Bachchan has voiced strong criticism against the prevailing ‘pap culture,’ describing the current paparazzi scene as ‘strange’ and questioning their professionalism and ethics. Speaking at the We The Women Asia event in Mumbai, Bachchan distinguished between legitimate journalism and paparazzi, stating her profound respect for the former while maintaining a ‘zero’ relationship with the latter.
Bachchan, who has a history of candid interactions with photographers, emphasized her strong ties to the media, considering herself a ‘product of the media.’ However, she expressed stark disapproval of paparazzi behavior, questioning their credentials and their intrusive methods. ‘Who are these people? Are they trained to represent the people of this country?’ she asked, highlighting her father’s background as a journalist and her deep respect for traditional media professionals.
She particularly took aim at individuals who, armed with mobile phones, seemingly believe they have carte blanche to photograph anyone. Bachchan described their conduct as bizarre, questioning their lack of education and background. ‘Magar ye jo bahar drain-pipe tight gande gande pant pahen ke haath mein mobile leke… they think they have a mobile in their hand so they can take your picture?’ she remarked.
Furthermore, Bachchan condemned the loud and often inappropriate comments made by paparazzi while taking pictures. She questioned their origins and educational qualifications, pondering how such individuals could represent the public. She also dismissed online criticism directed at her, stating she ‘doesn’t give a damn’ and views those who aggressively pursue celebrities as intrusive ‘rats’ with mobile cameras.
Bachchan also criticized young actors who allegedly orchestrate paparazzi encounters for publicity, deeming the practice ’embarrassing.’ She questioned the status of celebrities who rely on attracting cameras at airports for attention, asking, ‘Agar aapko apna photo nikalne ke liye airport pe camera bulana pade, to phir kya tarah ka celebrity ho aap?’
Known for her firm stance, Jaya Bachchan has frequently been seen admonishing photographers at public events. Her last on-screen appearance was in Karan Johar’s critically acclaimed film ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani,’ which garnered a National Award.