What! Jaya Bachchan couldn't join the army due to gender stereotypes; says, 'I was very disappointed...'

Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan’s granddaughter, Navya Naveli Nanda, recently launched the second season of her podcast, What The Hell Navya. Hosted by the mother-daughter duo of Navya and Shweta Bachchan Nanda, it features the three generations of Bachchan women: Jaya, Shweta and Navya, who share insights on various topics. What The Hell Navya’s Season 2’s most recent episode saw the trio delving into the realm of evolving gender stereotypes. Jaya Bachchan shared some heartfelt thoughts on the same. Read on... 

Jaya Bachchan reveals she wanted to join the army 

While speaking about gender roles, Jaya Bachchan revealed that she had wanted to enlist in the army but encountered several obstacles because of her gender. “I remember a time when I was very disappointed because I wanted to join the army. At the time, they did not admit women, except as nurses,” Jaya said, highlighting the challenges encountered by women in pursuing traditionally male-dominated fields. 

Also Read: What The Hell Navya Season 2 - Jaya Bachchan tells Navya Nanda she isn't bothered by people making fun of her but... 

Shweta Bachchan Nanda goes down memory lane 

Shweta had begun the conversation by recalling rigid gender norms that were common when she was growing up. She discussed the differences between the courses taken by men and women in college. Additionally, she also said that it would be strange if a lady would drive while the man would sit in the passenger seat. “Today, that’s not there and we have really progressed,” she noted. 

Also Read: Why does Jaya Bachchan think it is 'stupid' for women to pay on dates? 

Agastya Nanda’s take on growing up around strong, opinionated women 

Shweta Bachchan Nanda’s son, Agastya Nanda, was also a part of the episode. He shared his thoughts about growing up around strong, outspoken women. The Archies actor said, “I've grown up around very strong, very opinionated women who said everything they wanted and did whatever they wanted.” He explained that this is why he thinks differently, as he was raised in a completely different environment. 

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