When Amitabh Bachchan shared why marrying Jaya was his life’s greatest blessing: ' She is a very spontaneous person...'

Before they became one of India’s most admired couples, Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bhaduri were just two promising actors finding their place in Hindi cinema. Their first meeting happened on the sets of Guddi, directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee. It was Jaya who was first struck by Big B’s presence.

In an old interview, Jaya recalled, “I was introduced to him on the sets of Guddi. I was impressed by him and somewhat in awe as he was Harivanshrai Bachchan’s son. I fell in love with him very soon.”
Their bond deepened on the sets of Ek Nazar (1972), and the two tied the knot in 1973. It’s now been over five decades since that union—one that continues to endure quietly but firmly through the waves of time and fame.

"It’s a boon to have her"

In a candid interview with Stardust magazine years ago, Amitabh Bachchan offered a rare glimpse into his relationship with Jaya Bachchan. The Don actor said that being married to someone from the same profession gave their relationship a sense of understanding and depth that few outside the industry could comprehend.

“Jaya is a very spontaneous person. Not at all like me. And it’s just very fortunate for me that she’s from the same profession as me and so she understands... It’s a boon to have her,” he remarked, speaking fondly of the companionship they shared through the highs and lows of stardom.

Breaking the myth: Marriage in the spotlight

Contrary to the often-cited fragility of relationships in showbiz, Amitabh stood firm in his belief that lasting bonds are possible. In the same interview, he challenged the idea that celebrity marriages are doomed.

“You say that marriages in this industry don’t last. But with all due apologies and all due respect to others, how do you put me in the same category?” he said, reaffirming his commitment to Jaya and their life together.

A relationship built on space and simplicity

One of the more revealing aspects of the interview was Amitabh’s view on how their individual traits complemented rather than conflicted. While he described himself as someone who preferred solitude, he appreciated Jaya’s openness and emotional honesty.

“Jaya is extremely open and very straight. Sometimes embarrassingly straight but that’s how her nature is. I’ve never tried to disturb that quality of hers and she’s not disturbed my quality of being to myself. When I want to be left alone, she leaves me alone,” he said, drawing a parallel with the quiet understanding his parents shared.

At the time of their marriage, Jaya was already a star, while Amitabh was still climbing the ladder. Despite the eventual fame and fortune, he always rejected the notion that success should come with extravagance. Thankfully, Jaya felt the same.

“I appreciate a more normal and simple relationship. That is what attracted me to Jaya. She’s very simple and very down-to-earth. Away from all this,” he said, referring to the world of expensive gifts and flashy gestures.