In the world of Bollywood, stories of love, admiration, and candid confessions often surprise fans. One such moment that still makes headlines is when Jaya Bachchan openly admitted her crush on veteran actor Dharmendra — right in front of his wife, Hema Malini. The revelation came years after their iconic film Guddi, and the story remains one of the most charming anecdotes in Hindi cinema.

Jaya Bachchan’s Early Connection with Dharmendra

Jaya Bachchan, one of the most respected actresses in Indian cinema, began her acting career at the age of just 15 with Satyajit Ray’s Bengali classic Mahanagar. However, her Bollywood debut came eight years later with Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s 1971 film Guddi — a movie that would shape not just her career, but also her lasting admiration for Dharmendra.

In Guddi, Jaya played a naïve schoolgirl who is infatuated with film star Dharmendra, blurring the line between reel and real life. Interestingly, her admiration for Dharmendra wasn’t just part of her character — she later revealed that she truly had a soft corner for the handsome actor in real life as well.

The Confession on ‘Koffee with Karan’

The unforgettable revelation happened during an episode of Koffee with Karan, where Jaya Bachchan appeared alongside Hema Malini. During a fun conversation, Jaya candidly admitted that she had once been smitten by Dharmendra’s charm.

Laughing, she said,

“I should have played Basanti because I really liked Dharmendra. The first time I saw him, I was completely awestruck. He was wearing white pants and white shoes, looking every bit like a Greek god. I was so nervous that I didn’t even know how to react.”

The moment left both Hema and the audience smiling. Hema Malini, known for her grace and composure, took the confession sportingly, making it one of the most memorable and light-hearted moments on the show.

From Reel Crush to Real Friendship

Jaya’s fondness for Dharmendra dates back to her Guddi days, where she portrayed a young girl madly in love with the superstar. That role remains one of her most loved performances — pure, innocent, and relatable.

Over the years, the bond between Jaya Bachchan and Dharmendra turned into a warm friendship based on mutual respect. Decades later, both actors reunited in Karan Johar’s film Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, rekindling nostalgia for fans who had admired their chemistry since Guddi.

Dharmendra even shared a nostalgic post on Instagram with a picture of Jaya, captioning it:

“After years… with my Guddi again. Guddi, who was once my big fan… what a beautiful reunion.”

Dharmendra’s Fond Words for His ‘Guddi’

In an old interview, Dharmendra spoke affectionately about his connection with Jaya Bachchan. He said he still sees her as the same cheerful and innocent girl he worked with in the early ’70s.

“For me, she will always be Guddi — the one with that bright smile. Time has passed, but she hasn’t changed at all. She may insist she’s not Guddi anymore, but to me, she always will be,” Dharmendra said fondly.

He went on to add that Jaya is not just a co-star, but a part of his extended family, someone he continues to hold in high regard even today.

A Timeless Bond of Respect and Nostalgia

What makes this story so special is the authenticity of emotion behind it. Jaya’s honest confession about her admiration for Dharmendra, and Hema Malini’s gracious reaction, showed the mutual warmth and respect that still defines Bollywood’s golden generation.

More than just a playful confession, it was a moment that highlighted the genuine human connections behind the glamour of the film industry.

Even decades later, fans fondly remember Guddi — and the endearing bond it created between Jaya Bachchan and Dharmendra — a relationship built on admiration, nostalgia, and enduring respect.