Jaya Bachchan believes Amitabh Bachchan “gave a better performance” than her in ‘Mili’ - Exclusive

Jaya Bachchan Praises Amitabh's Performance in 'Mili' on Film's 50th Anniversary

The iconic film 'Mili,' directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee and starring Jaya Bachchan and Amitabh Bachchan, celebrates its 50th anniversary. Jaya Bachchan shared her reflections on the film and her experience working on it in an exclusive interview.

"‘Mili’ is one of my favourite films with Hrishi Kaku," Jaya Bachchan stated. She revealed that she had initially planned to retire from acting, considering 'Abhimaan' as her final film before marriage. However, the opportunity to work with Hrishikesh Mukherjee was too enticing to pass up. "It was an irresistible part," she admitted with a laugh.

Looking back on the film, Jaya Bachchan expressed that she couldn't imagine anyone else playing the role of Mili. "To be fair, I can’t imagine anyone else in that character," she confessed.

Jaya Bachchan Believes Amitabh Bachchan Delivered a Superior Performance in 'Mili'

Despite her own acclaimed performance, Jaya Bachchan believes that Amitabh Bachchan outshone her in 'Mili.' She remarked, "I think our (Jaya and Amitabh’s) best films together were ‘Abhimaan’ and ‘Mili.’ I think Amitji gave a better performance than I did in Mili." She further emphasized, "I consider it to be one of his best performances."

Reflecting on her collaboration with Hrishikesh Mukherjee, Jaya Bachchan fondly recalled, "Like all Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s films, it was quick and very enjoyable. Hrishi Kaku came across as very laidback. But he knew exactly what he wanted from his cast and crew." She added, "And he wouldn’t rest easy until the shooting happened exactly his way."