Actor and MP Jaya Bachchan has landed in controversy after making strong remarks about the paparazzi culture.
She questioned their behaviour, clothing, education and background, asking how such people can represent the public.
Her comments triggered anger online, with many calling them disrespectful and classist.
On Monday, filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, who is also the president of the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association, criticised Jaya Bachchan and called her a “snob”.
Sharing a note on Instagram, he said: Jaya Bachchan’s statement against paparazzi shows snobbish elitism.
Criticising aggressive coverage is fine, but insulting the profession with classist comments is unacceptable, especially from a senior artist and parliamentarian.”
He added that paparazzi are hardworking professionals, and many times celebrities and their PR teams invite them for coverage.
He said that instead of blaming them, she should reflect on why the culture exists at all.
What Jaya Bachchan Said
Jaya Bachchan stated that while she has great respect for journalists—since her father was one—she does not support paparazzi culture.
She said: My relationship with the media is good, but with paparazzi it is zero. Who are they? Are they trained? Are they educated? What background do they come from?”
She criticised their behaviour and appearance and questioned how someone simply using a mobile camera could call themselves media personnel.
Speaking about celebrities calling paparazzi to airports for photos, she said: I If you have to call photographers to take your pictures at the airport, what kind of celebrity are you?”
She mentioned that her grandson Agastya Bachchan is young but chooses to stay away from social media and publicity.
The comments sparked strong reactions on social media, with many accusing her of looking down on working-class people who earn a living through photography.
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