Rajesh Khanna: often referred to as the “First Superstar” of Indian cinema, left an indelible mark on Bollywood with his charismatic presence and remarkable acting skills. On the occasion of remembering this legendary actor, let’s delve into 17 interesting facts about Rajesh Khanna that showcase the life and career of the man who captured the hearts of millions.
Del6092356
1. Birth of a Star:
Born on December 29, 1942, as Jatin Khanna, in Amritsar, Punjab, Rajesh Khanna was destined for greatness. His journey to stardom began when he won the All-India Talent Contest organized by United Producers and Filmfare.
2. A Phenomenal Debut:
In 1966, Rajesh Khanna made his debut with “Aakhri Khat.” Although the film did not create much buzz, it marked the beginning of an illustrious career.
3. The Record-Breaker:
Rajesh Khanna achieved unparalleled success with 15 consecutive solo hit films between 1969 and 1971, a record yet to be surpassed by any other Bollywood actor.
4. Signature Style:
Known for his unique mannerisms, especially the head nod and the famous wink, Rajesh Khanna’s style became iconic and was imitated by fans across the nation.
5. Romantic Charmer:
Rajesh Khanna’s on-screen romantic persona was a major draw for audiences. His pairing with actress Sharmila Tagore in films like “Aradhana” and “Safar” became legendary.
6. Anand’s Tears:
The 1971 film “Anand,” directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee, showcased Rajesh Khanna in a poignant role that left audiences in tears. His performance as the terminally ill Anand Babu is remembered as one of his finest.
7. Success at the Box Office:
Rajesh Khanna’s films not only touched hearts but also made a significant impact at the box office. His success was a crucial factor in establishing the importance of the leading man in Bollywood.
8. Political Aspirations:
Apart from acting, Rajesh Khanna ventured into politics and served as a Member of Parliament from the New Delhi constituency between 1992 and 1996.
9. Filmfare Dominance:
Rajesh Khanna’s contributions to cinema were duly recognized with numerous awards, including three Filmfare Best Actor Awards and the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005.
10. The Kaka-Katrina Connection:
Interestingly, Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif is related to Rajesh Khanna. She is the granddaughter of his sister.
12. A Musical Maestro:
Rajesh Khanna’s association with timeless music is evident in his films, where he collaborated with legendary composers like R.D. Burman and Kishore Kumar. Songs like “Mere Sapno Ki Rani” and “Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai” remain evergreen.
13. Love Story with Dimple Kapadia:
Rajesh Khanna’s marriage to Dimple Kapadia created a media frenzy. Despite their eventual separation, their love story remains a significant part of Bollywood folklore.
14. Hattrick of Hits:
In 1971, Rajesh Khanna starred in three back-to-back hits – “Anand,” “Haathi Mere Saathi,” and “Namak Haraam,” solidifying his position as the undisputed superstar.
15. The Rajesh Khanna Fan Club:
During the peak of his career, Rajesh Khanna’s popularity was such that he had a fan club named “The Dimple Kapadia and Rajesh Khanna Fan Club” in Germany.
16. Influence on Fashion:
Rajesh Khanna’s fashion sense, characterized by his trademark kurta-pajama and oversized sunglasses, became a trendsetter in the 1970s.
17. Lasting Legacy:
Even though his superstardom saw a decline in the late 1970s, Rajesh Khanna’s impact on Indian cinema remains everlasting. His films continue to be celebrated and cherished by generations of moviegoers.
18. Farewell to the First Superstar:
Rajesh Khanna bid farewell to the world on July 18, 2012, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the annals of Bollywood history.
Conclusion:
Rajesh Khanna’s journey from a small town in Punjab to becoming the first Bollywood superstar is a story of talent, perseverance, and unmatched charisma. As we remember this legendary actor, let’s cherish the films and moments that made Rajesh Khanna an enduring icon in the world of Indian cinema.
WRITTEN BY ALEX