Ashoke Pandit Slams Jaya Bachchan, Calls Her ‘Arrogant’ Over Paparazzi Remarks

A recent comment by veteran actress Jaya Bachchan criticizing the paparazzi has sparked widespread debate across the film industry. Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit has now responded sharply, calling the senior actress “arrogant” and questioning the propriety of her remarks.

Jaya Bachchan, known for her candid views on media interactions, compared paparazzi photographers to “rats” during an event, criticizing their attire, training, and what she called “frivolous comments.” Her statement triggered strong reactions from both media circles and the film fraternity.

Ashoke Pandit Responds

Ashoke Pandit, President of the Indian Film and Television Directors Association, said Jaya Bachchan’s comments reflect a sense of “elitist arrogance.” He added, “It is one thing to question specific paparazzi behavior, but belittling an entire profession and making classist remarks does not suit a respected Member of Parliament and a senior industry figure.”

Pandit further emphasized that paparazzi are hardworking professionals performing their duties. He noted that celebrities or their PR teams often invite photographers for pictures. “If Jaya Ji has objections to paparazzi culture, she should first engage in self-reflection rather than express misplaced anger publicly,” he remarked.

Jaya Bachchan on Paparazzi and Media Relations

During the event, Jaya Bachchan explained her stance, highlighting her own background as the daughter of a journalist. She said she respects the media, but taking photos invasively with a mobile phone does not constitute proper journalism. She questioned the training, background, and professionalism of many paparazzi, criticizing their behavior on social media and in public spaces.

“I come from the media. My father was a journalist. I hold immense respect for professionals in the field. But these people, carrying phones, intruding into privacy, thinking they can take pictures and comment as they please… who are they? What kind of education and background do they have? Do they represent the people of this country?” she said.

Jaya also expressed concerns about young actors being exposed to social media and paparazzi culture. She mentioned her grandson, Augusty Nanda, pointing out that despite being new in the industry, he is kept away from social networks. “If you have to call people to take your airport photos, what kind of celebrity are you?” she added.

The Controversy Continues

Jaya Bachchan’s comparison of paparazzi to “rats” and her forthright critique of their conduct has stirred discussions across social and mainstream media. Industry insiders remain divided, with many supporting professional paparazzi while others empathize with the veteran actress’s concerns over privacy.