Jaya Bachchan on her ‘Zero’ rapport with paparazzi: ‘The kind of comments they pass…’ Watch

Actor and parliamentarian Jaya Bachchan, known for her uncompromising stance on privacy and dignity in public spaces, once again addressed her long-standing discomfort with paparazzi culture. Speaking at the We The Women event in Mumbai, the veteran star expressed serious concerns about the behaviour of photographers who follow celebrities at events, airports, and social gatherings.

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‘My Relationship with Paparazzi Is Zero’

When asked about her rapport with the paparazzi, Jaya offered a candid response.

She said, “I hate it. It is strange. My relationship with media is fantastic. I am the product of the media, but my relationship with the paparazzi is zero. Who are these people? Are they trained to be representing the people of this country? You call them media? I come from media! My father was a journalist. I have immense respect, tremendous respect for such people.”

Her remarks highlighted her distinction between responsible journalism and what she perceives as unfiltered, untrained behaviour by those using phones or cameras without professional grounding.

‘The Kind of Comments They Pass…’

Continuing her criticism, she added, “Magar ye jo baahar drain pipe pant, gande-gande kapde pehen ke haath me mobile leke (These men outside wearing these slim pants and dirty clothes with mobiles in their hands)… they think that just because they have a mobile they can take your picture, and say what they want? And the kind of comments they pass? What kind of people are these people? Kaha se aatey he? Kis tarah ke education he? Kya background he (From where are these people coming? What is their education? What is their background)? Will they represent us? Just because they can go through social media?"

Her remarks reflect her frustration with the growing culture of intrusive photography and casual commentary that, according to her, lacks accountability and respect.

A History of Confrontations with the Paparazzi

This is not the first time Jaya Bachchan has criticised the paparazzi for breaching personal boundaries. The actor has frequently called out those who attempt to photograph her without consent, often reminding them to behave responsibly.

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Over the years, several instances of her schooling cameramen at events and public appearances have gone viral, further amplifying the ongoing conversation around celebrity privacy.