Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan have created some of Bollywood’s most iconic cinematic moments, working together in films that have ranged from intense dramas to light-hearted comedies. Their on-screen chemistry, combined with their impeccable acting skills, has elevated every story they’ve been a part of. Here’s a detailed look at their memorable collaborations and the unique roles they brought to life.
1. Zanjeer
- Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Pran, Om Prakash
- IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
- Release Year: 1973
- Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
- Where to Watch: Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video
Zanjeer was a turning point for Amitabh Bachchan, establishing him as Bollywood’s ‘angry young man’. In this crime drama, he played Inspector Vijay Khanna, a stoic and morally upright officer seeking revenge for his parents’ murder. Jaya portrayed Mala, a carefree street performer whose life changes when she witnesses a murder and comes under Vijay’s protection.
The film’s gritty narrative, combined with their contrasting personalities, Vijay’s intensity, and Mala’s innocence, created a compelling dynamic. This landmark film not only catapulted Amitabh to superstardom but also solidified their place as a beloved on-screen pair.
2. Abhimaan
- Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Asrani, Bindu, A. K. Hangal
- IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
- Release Year: 1973
- Genre: Musical, Drama, Romance
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Hotstar
Abhimaan explored the emotional intricacies of marriage and career rivalry. Amitabh Bachchan played Subir, a renowned singer whose ego is bruised when his wife, Uma (Jaya), becomes a more successful singer. As their relationship deteriorates, the film delves into themes of jealousy, love, and reconciliation.
Jaya’s portrayal of Uma, a gentle yet determined woman navigating her husband’s insecurities, was deeply nuanced, while Big B brought depth to Subir’s emotional struggles. Their real-life chemistry lent authenticity to their performances, making the film a heartfelt exploration of personal and professional conflicts.
3. Mili
- Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Ashok Kumar, Usha Kiran
- IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
- Release Year: 1975
- Genre: Drama, Romance
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, SonyLiv
In this tender and poignant drama, Jaya played the titular role of Mili, a lively young woman battling a terminal illness. Big B portrayed Shekhar, a reclusive alcoholic who finds hope and purpose through his growing bond with Mili.
The film revolves around their relationship, which blossomed despite the shadow of tragedy. Jaya’s vibrant performance and Amitabh Bachchan’s reserved yet deeply emotional portrayal created a heartwarming story about love, resilience, and the transformative power of relationships.
4. Chupke Chupke
- Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Dharmendra, Sharmila Tagore, Om Prakash
- IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
- Release Year: 1975
- Genre: Comedy
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
This classic comedy, directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee, showcased Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya’s lighter side. In Chupke Chupke, they played a newlywed couple who became involved in a series of humorous misunderstandings and practical jokes.
Big B’s deadpan humor as a witty professor and Jaya’s charm as the playful wife added to the film’s charm. Their camaraderie, combined with the ensemble cast’s comic timing, made this lighthearted film an enduring favorite.
5. Sholay
- Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Dharmendra, Hema Malini, Sanjeev Kumar, Amjad Khan
- IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
- Release Year: 1975
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Sholay remains one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated films, with Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya playing pivotal roles. Big B portrayed Jai, the quiet and courageous half of the iconic duo, while Jaya played Radha, the widow of the village Thakur’s son.
Their subtle romance, marked by moments of unspoken understanding, added a layer of poignancy to the action-packed narrative. Though not a traditional love story, their understated relationship in the midst of chaos left a lasting impression.
6. Silsila
- Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Rekha, Sanjeev Kumar, Shashi Kapoor
- IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
- Release Year: 1981
- Genre: Drama, Romance
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Silsila is perhaps one of the most talked-about films of the duo’s careers due to its exploration of love, betrayal, and societal expectations. Amitabh Bachchan played Amit Malhotra, a man torn between his duty to his wife, Shobha (Jaya), and his love for Chandni (Rekha).
Jaya delivered a restrained yet powerful performance as Shobha, a woman grappling with heartbreak and resilience. The film’s raw emotional depth coupled with its controversial themes made it an enduring classic, showcasing the trio’s acting prowess.
7. Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham
- Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Hrithik Roshan, Kareena Kapoor
- IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
- Release Year: 2001
- Genre: Drama, Family, Musical
- Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video
Nearly two decades after their last collaboration, they reunited for Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, a multigenerational family drama. They played Yash and Nandini Raichand, a wealthy couple whose differing relationships with their sons drive the story’s emotional core.
Amitabh Bachchan portrayed a traditional patriarch, while Jaya brought warmth and compassion as a mother torn between her love for her children and her loyalty to her husband. Their portrayal added depth and gravitas to this star-studded film, making their roles memorable even in a large ensemble cast.
What makes the couple’s on-screen pairing so special is their ability to bring authenticity to a wide range of genres. Whether it’s the intense drama of Zanjeer or the lighthearted fun of Chupke Chupke, they have consistently showcased their versatility. Their real-life relationship has undoubtedly added an extra layer of charm to their collaborations, allowing audiences to connect with their characters on a deeper level.
Over the years, their films have become timeless classics, celebrated for their storytelling, performances, and the emotional resonance they evoke. Their legacy as an on-screen couple continues to inspire both filmmakers and audiences, cementing their place in the history of Indian cinema.
