Jaya Bachchan (Pic/X)
In an age where the Internet reigns supreme, meme culture has become a substantial part of the online experience. Spawning more than just humor, memes have the power to turn public figures into viral sensations overnight—whether they like it or not. Recently, Bollywood veteran Jaya Bachchan joined the ranks of meme fame. Her candid reaction to the viral phenomenon came during a heartfelt conversation on her granddaughter Navya Nanda’s podcast-turned-vodcast, ‘What The Hell Navya.’
The premiere episode of this season’s vodcast, fittingly entitled ‘Women at Work,’ debuted with candid family banter featuring three generations of Bachchan women: Navya, Jaya, and Shweta Bachchan-Nanda. This session opened up a platform for the family to share their views ranging from everyday life to intricate details about their private and professional experiences.
The show began with Navya defining the modern concept of a side hustle for Jaya, explaining it as an activity that supplements one’s primary job. It’s here that Shweta piped in about Navya’s digital footprint, highlighting her granddaughter’s status as an “internet sensation” and a “meme generator”—roles she deems as legitimate in today’s digitized world. Responding with her well-known wit, Jaya quipped, “I provide meals to people who make my memes,” delivering an amusing spin on the economic influence of her unintended meme fame.
Navya broached the neologism “Jaya-ing,” inspired by her grandmother’s expressive demeanor in the memes, to describe a person who is unapologetically themselves without concern for others’ opinions. As the discussion delved deeper into the nuances of viral culture, Jaya modestly acknowledged her status as a pop culture phenomenon. While she doesn’t object to the memes, Jaya couldn’t resist a light-hearted jab at the quality of the memes based on her, encouraging more artistry in their creation.
As the vodcast flowed with laughter and touching moments, Jaya professed her bond with her daughter Shweta, proclaiming her as her fortitude—a sentiment lovingly echoed by Navya. The strong connection between the women was undeniable, displaying a family dynamic that transcends the generational divide.
Switching tracks, Navya drew attention to the stark contrast between her privileged entrepreneurial journey supported by family and the uphill battles faced by many unsupported women striving for success in various fields. This candid conversation shed light on the discrepancies present across different societal strata. The trio also ventured into the realm of homemaking, exploring the shifting responsibilities and challenging entrenched stereotypes. Further celebrating societal progress, they engaged in a playful ‘Would You Rather’ game, wherein Shweta expressed her comfort with her own natural beauty.
Wrapping up the episode, the Bachchan matriarchy set a powerful and inspirational tone. Navya encapsulated their ethos with the bold declaration, “We have chosen to be unapologetically ourselves,” a message that resonates with individuals striving to find and honor their genuine selves amidst the expectations of society.
‘What The Hell Navya’ promises to continue this trend of provocative conversation and enlightening discourse as it delves into various themes through the unique lens of the Bachchan women, ensuring that viewers leave each episode with thoughts to ponder and smiles to cherish.