Renowned Bollywood actress Kajol, known for her candid demeanor and fiery spirit, has addressed the recent comparisons drawn between her and veteran actress Jaya Bachchan regarding their interactions with the paparazzi. With her characteristic wit, Kajol responded to being labeled “scary” due to her firm stance with media photographers, suggesting, “It’s okay if you believe that I’m scary, please go watch Maa,” playfully promoting her upcoming horror-thriller film.
The comparisons intensified after several viral videos showcased Kajol, much like Jaya Bachchan, asserting boundaries and expressing her displeasure with intrusive paparazzi behavior. Bachchan has long been synonymous with her no-nonsense approach to the media, often making headlines for her blunt remarks and strong reactions to what she perceives as an invasion of privacy.
Kajol, who is currently busy promoting her film “Maa,” a mythological horror-thriller, shed light on the evolving landscape of paparazzi culture. Speaking to various media outlets, she emphasized that the dynamic has shifted beyond mere picture-taking. “I think right now it’s all about really the videos; even the paparazzi, for that matter. They’re waiting for you to say something. They coax you, they push you, till you have to! Not scream back at them, but at least say, ‘Listen, guys, calm down.’ You know, you don’t need to yell and scream to get a good picture.”
She further elaborated on the media’s perceived intent, stating, “It’s not about just clicking a picture or just clicking a video anymore. It’s about a reaction that they want because it has a tagline attached to it, or they can attach some sort of a negative tagline.” This sentiment resonates with many celebrities who feel that their genuine reactions are often manipulated to create sensational headlines.
When asked about her children’s reaction to these viral clips, Kajol shared a lighthearted anecdote: “My kids watch the viral videos of me scolding others, they say, ‘Mama, you are so natural, you are exactly the same way outside.'” This suggests that for Kajol, her public persona in these moments is an authentic extension of her private self.
Despite the comparisons, Kajol maintains a respectful stance towards Jaya Bachchan. In a past interaction, she even acknowledged Bachchan’s “fabulous” nature when the comparison arose, indicating mutual respect within the industry.
Kajol’s recent remarks highlight the increasing pressure celebrities face in the age of constant surveillance and social media scrutiny. While her forthrightness might lead to her being perceived as “scary” by some, her clear message is that setting boundaries and demanding respect is a natural response to what can often be an overwhelming and intrusive environment. As “Maa” gears up for its release, the actress seems to be embracing her “scary” image, both on and off-screen.