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Jaya Bachchan Calls Akshay Kumar’s 2017 Film Toilet: Ek Prem Katha a “Flop Film”
Updated on: 19 March, 2025 04:20 PM IST |Amruta Karulkar
Jaya Bachchan and Toilet: Ek Prem Katha Poster
Veteran actress Jaya Bachchan, known for her candid opinions, has stirred up a conversation once again. This time, her target is Akshay Kumar’s 2017 film, "Toilet: Ek Prem Katha." During a recent interview, the 76-year-old actress didn`t hold back, labelling the film a "flop film" and questioning its very title.
When few hands were raised, she promptly stated, "Among so many people, hardly four want to watch the film; it’s very sad. Picture flop hai (It’s a flop film)." This interaction highlights her belief that the film`s title itself alienated potential viewers.
The conversation then shifted towards Hindi films with narratives that align with government policies and campaigns. Bachchan expressed concern about the increasing political influence in cinema. "In today’s day and age, even political parties are making films, and to discuss all that, we need a lot of time," she remarked.
Also Read: Bachchan Family Reacts To Abhishek Bachchan-Nimrat Kaur`s Rumored Affair
Despite Bachchan`s critique, the film was a blockbuster, grossing over Rs 300 crore and receiving positive reviews for its scripting and performances. It also garnered three Filmfare nominations, including Best Film.
It`s important to note that while Bachchan called the film a "flop," its commercial and critical success tells a different story. The film`s message resonated with a large audience, contributing to the national conversation about sanitation.
Furthermore, Akshay Kumar has been known to take up socially relevant topics in his films. He also starred in "PadMan," which addressed women’s hygiene and the stigma surrounding menstruation.
Also Read: Jaya Bachchan Name Row: Addressing Women`s Issue or A Storm in a Teacup?
A Questionable Title?
The film, which aimed to promote Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, became a point of contention when Bachchan questioned its appeal. "Abhi aap naam bhi dekhiye toh main aisi picturein khud kabhi na dekhne jau. Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, yeh koi naam hai? Yeh koi title hai? Please bataiye aap logo me se kitne log iss tarah ki title wali film dekhne jayenge," she asked the audience.When few hands were raised, she promptly stated, "Among so many people, hardly four want to watch the film; it’s very sad. Picture flop hai (It’s a flop film)." This interaction highlights her belief that the film`s title itself alienated potential viewers.
The conversation then shifted towards Hindi films with narratives that align with government policies and campaigns. Bachchan expressed concern about the increasing political influence in cinema. "In today’s day and age, even political parties are making films, and to discuss all that, we need a lot of time," she remarked.
Also Read: Bachchan Family Reacts To Abhishek Bachchan-Nimrat Kaur`s Rumored Affair
About the Movie
"Toilet: Ek Prem Katha," directed by Shree Narayan Singh, featured Akshay Kumar, Bhumi Pednekar, Anupam Kher, and Divyenndu. It tackled the crucial issue of open defecation and the importance of building toilets, especially in rural areas.Despite Bachchan`s critique, the film was a blockbuster, grossing over Rs 300 crore and receiving positive reviews for its scripting and performances. It also garnered three Filmfare nominations, including Best Film.
It`s important to note that while Bachchan called the film a "flop," its commercial and critical success tells a different story. The film`s message resonated with a large audience, contributing to the national conversation about sanitation.
Furthermore, Akshay Kumar has been known to take up socially relevant topics in his films. He also starred in "PadMan," which addressed women’s hygiene and the stigma surrounding menstruation.
Also Read: Jaya Bachchan Name Row: Addressing Women`s Issue or A Storm in a Teacup?
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