We wish the versatile actor a wonderful birthday and a rocking time with family and friends Born on April 9, 1948, Jaya Bachchan’s performances are etched in our collective psyche. Be it the innocent li’l girl in Guddi, the effervescent chick in Mili or the serious Radha in Sholay, the veteran actor always had this amazing ability to get into the skin of the character. Her long raven hair, which she always tied into a neat plait and her crisp cotton sarees used to be her signature style. She was the epitome of a young Indian lady you want to take home to your mother. Bachchan was a diligent, fire in the belly kind of a person right since the start.

An gold medalist and a Padma Shri recipient, she has carved an identity for herself in the industry by taking up some really substantial roles. She married Amitabh Bachchan in 1973, and although the couple did face their share of ups and downs, the cracks were seen melding over the years. The actor delved into politics, and is now an active member of the Rajya Sabha. We wish to see her in more films; the powerhouse performer that she is, it can only be a delight to watch her on screen. Lata Mangeshkar will confer the Deenanath Mangeshkar Award to veteran star on April 24, for her contribution to theatre and cinema. We wish her loads of luck this birthday, and in the coming years!