Veteran actress and Member of Parliament Jaya Bachchan has once again become a topic of online debate after a video from actor Manoj Kumar’s prayer meet, held on Sunday, began circulating on social media. Known for her outspoken nature, Bachchan is seen reacting sternly to a fan’s apparent attempt to take a photograph during the solemn gathering.

In the video, which only shows the back view of the interaction, Jaya Bachchan is engaged in conversation with a group of women when an elderly woman taps her on the shoulder. The actress turns around, seemingly taken aback. The woman is accompanied by a man who appears to be attempting to take a photo of the moment on his phone. The situation seems visibly awkward, as the woman reaches out for a handshake while the man continues to hold up his device. Bachchan pulls her hand away and is seen scolding the man, reportedly upset about the attempt to take photographs during a moment meant for remembrance.

The incident has sparked divided opinions online. Some viewers criticised Jaya Bachchan for what they considered discourteous behaviour towards an elderly woman. Others defended her reaction, arguing that a prayer meet is not an appropriate setting for selfies or casual interactions with celebrities.

One user pointed out that the woman seemed more interested in taking a photo than in offering condolences and suggested that while Bachchan’s reaction was justified, she could have addressed the situation more politely. Others firmly sided with the actress, stating that individuals trying to take photographs at such events should be removed.

The prayer meet was held in honour of legendary actor Manoj Kumar, who passed away on Friday in Mumbai due to heart-related complications. Widely recognised for his patriotic films and socially conscious themes, Kumar was known for classics such as Shaheed, Upkar, Purab Aur Pachhim, Roti Kapda Aur Makan, and Kranti.

The ceremony was attended by several prominent names from the Indian film industry, including Aamir Khan, Asha Parekh, Ramesh Sippy, Rakesh Roshan, Honey Irani, David Dhawan, Johny Lever, Jaaved Jaaferi, Subhash Ghai, Aruna Irani, Ranjeet, Shekhar Suman, Ashoke Pandit, Vindu Dara Singh, Mukesh Rishi, Esha Deol, Zayed Khan, Dheeraj Kumar, Poonam Sinha, Sonu Nigam, Udit Narayan and Anu Malik.

As the video continues to circulate, public responses have varied. Some users expressed frustration at what they view as Jaya Bachchan’s repeated displays of arrogance in public, questioning her suitability for public life. Others targeted the entire Bachchan family, calling for a boycott and urging them to address what they consider inappropriate behaviour. At the same time, some have defended the actress, stating that the setting warranted more respectful conduct from those in attendance and that she had the right to protect her personal space during a moment of mourning.