When Jaya Bachchan was asked if she was jealous of Hema Malini after her movie Baghban with Amitabh Bachchan: 'I cannot look as beautiful...'

Hema Malini and Amitabh Bachchan worked together in several films like Sholay, Do Aur Do Paanch, Naseeb, Satte Pe Satta, Andha Kanoon, and Baghban. They became a popular on-screen pair, giving many hit movies in different genres. Their chemistry in action, romance, and drama made them one of Bollywood’s most loved duos.
As per News 18, in 2005, Jaya Bachchan was asked about her opinion on Hema Malini and Amitabh Bachchan’s on-screen chemistry.

In a 2005 interview on Aaj Tak’s Seedhi Baat, Jaya was asked if she felt jealous of Hema Malini and Amitabh Bachchan’s chemistry in Baghban. She dismissed the idea and praised Hema’s performance, saying she couldn’t have looked as graceful in that role. The host then asked if she believed Hema was more beautiful than her and whether that made her feel jealous.

Jaya Bachchan clarified that her comment was about beauty, not acting, and that she didn’t feel jealous. The report also mentioned that Dharmendra chose not to watch Baghban due to Hema Malini and Amitabh Bachchan’s on-screen chemistry. However, Jaya had no such concerns.
Meanwhile, filmmaker BR Chopra had initially opposed his son Ravi Chopra’s decision to make Baghban with Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini, fearing it wouldn’t succeed. However, Salman Khan’s involvement changed the film’s fate, making it a massive hit. His presence added star power, attracting a wider audience and boosting its success.