Veteran actress and MP Jaya Bachchan made a stunning statement while receiving the Cine Icon Award at the Filmfare Awards 2025 held in Ahmedabad. Using the platform to express a concern close to his heart, the veteran actor urged the film fraternity and the audience to stop using the word. Bollywood And instead refer to it by its correct identity – Hindi-Indian film industry,
Standing on the stage to applause, Jaya Bachchan said with conviction, “This is not Bollywood or Hollywood. A lot of people present here – actors, artists, writers, directors and audiences – are calling it Bollywood. Please don’t do that. This is the Hindi-Indian film industry, and give it due respect. This is a request from a person who has been in this film industry for the last 55 years.”
The 76-year-old star is known for her powerful performances in classics like Guddi, prideAnd quietly quietlyreceived thunderous applause for his remarks. His words struck a chord with many in the audience, as he echoed a long-standing sentiment of film veterans who feel the word. Bollywood It weakens the originality and heritage of Indian cinema.
Expressing her gratitude on receiving the honour, she said, “Thank you for your love and kindness. I accept it with all humility. Thank you.”
The prestigious award was presented to her by Shah Rukh Khan and Karan Johar, who shared heartfelt words celebrating her illustrious career and personal warmth. Introducing her to the audience, Karan Johar said, “Let’s welcome the one and only Jaya Bachchan Aunty with thunderous applause.” His affectionate comment brought smiles and laughter on the faces of the audience.
Karan further teased her and said, “I’m sorry that we are doing this stupid thing, but we consider you our mother. Shahrukh and I have taken up the responsibility of giving you the award. We are very happy, more than you. God bless you and thank you very much.”
The filmmaker further added, “I have the right to call her Aunty Jay. She is like a mother to me. She has known me since childhood. I have also had the amazing privilege of directing Aunty Jaya. Her legacy precedes us. But more than anything, she has a warm heart, and everyone should know that, especially in the paparazzi.”
The emotional moment between the three well-known personalities drew thunderous applause from the crowd and showcased the warmth and camaraderie that has long defined their relationships within the film fraternity.
Jaya Bachchan and Karan Johar have a long-standing relationship, with the actress playing memorable roles in Dharma Productions’ iconic films. sometimes happy sometimes sad (2001) and tomorrow may or may not happen (2003). Both films remain milestones in Hindi cinema, further cementing Johar’s creative universe and his connection with the new generation of filmmakers.
Over the years, Jaya Bachchan has often talked about maintaining the dignity and authenticity of Indian cinema, urging audiences and creators to preserve its linguistic and cultural identity. His appeal on the Filmfare stage once again confirmed his stance as the voice of conscience in the industry.
His words serve as a reminder that while the Hindi film industry is evolving and globalizing, its core identity – rooted in Indian language, art and spirit – deserves to be celebrated on its own terms, without borrowed labels.
