In the ever-evolving world of politics, where alliances shift as rapidly as the tide, the recent warming of relations between the Bachchan and Gandhi families has captured public attention. This rekindled friendship, particularly between Congress MP Sonia Gandhi and Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan, stands as a testament to the saying that in politics, there are no permanent friends or enemies—only permanent interests.
The Bachchan and Gandhi families were once closely knit, with Amitabh Bachchan’s mother, Teji Bachchan, reportedly playing a key role in teaching Sonia Gandhi Hindi when she moved to India to marry Rajiv Gandhi. Sonia’s daughter, Priyanka Vadra, also fondly recalls “Teji aunty” teaching her poetry. Amitabh Bachchan and Rajiv Gandhi, along with Arun Nehru, were seen as a tight-knit trio, much like the contemporary group surrounding Rahul Gandhi. Amitabh even entered politics to support his friend Rajiv and played a significant role in Priyanka Vadra’s wedding, performing the kanyadaan.
However, the once-strong bond between the families unraveled. While the exact reasons remain unclear, it is believed that the Gandhis felt betrayed by Amitabh during the Bofors scandal, a major controversy that rocked Indian politics in the 1980s. Amitabh, on the other hand, once remarked, “They are the raja, and we are the ranks,” reflecting the widening chasm between the two families. Jaya Bachchan, in particular, harbored deep resentment, accusing the Gandhis of hurting her husband.
The rift deepened as Amitabh Bachchan grew closer to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, fueling the Gandhis’ anger, with accusations of betrayal further straining relations. Yet, in a surprising turn of events, the icy relationship seems to have thawed. Recently, Sonia Gandhi and Jaya Bachchan were seen sharing a laugh, a moment that raised eyebrows and signaled a possible reconciliation.
The real shock came when Sonia Gandhi, in an unexpected show of support, encouraged Jaya Bachchan to confront Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar in the Rajya Sabha. As Jaya engaged in a heated exchange with the Vice President, Sonia signaled to the INDIA bloc leaders to stand by her, which they did. Sonia’s visible support for Jaya, reminiscent of her backing of TMC MP Mahua Moitra during her disqualification, has sparked speculation about a new chapter in the Bachchan-Gandhi relationship.
Many are left wondering how these former friends, turned adversaries, have found common ground once again. Insiders suggest that senior leaders within the INDIA bloc, including West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, are pushing for unity and urging all involved to let go of past grievances. Banerjee, in particular, has played a crucial role in mending fences, believing that past bitterness must be set aside to form a stronger political alliance.
As the Bachchan-Gandhi relationship comes full circle, with Sonia regaining her voice thanks to the Bachchans’ early influence, it appears that political necessity is driving the creation of a new script—one where old rivalries are put to rest in favor of future collaborations.
