Bollywood’s evergreen diva, Rekha, turns 70 on October 10, and her life is nothing short of legendary. Known for her grace, charm, and powerful performances, she has been a household name for decades. Her journey from a child artist to one of India’s most respected actresses is filled with stories of struggles, successes, and secrets that have fascinated fans for years.
The President’s Curious Question
One incident that stands out in Rekha’s career was when she was receiving the National Film Award for Best Actress in 1981 for her iconic performance in Umrao Jaan. At the award ceremony, then-President Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy was intrigued by Rekha’s vermilion, traditionally worn by married women, and asked her why she wore it. Rekha, with her signature poise, replied that in her hometown, wearing vermilion was considered fashionable.
This incident sparked curiosity about Rekha’s personal life, which has always been under the public eye. Despite the constant media attention and speculations, Rekha has remained dignified, never bowing to the pressure of revealing more than she wished.
A Woman of Strength: Rekha’s Personal Life
Rekha’s personal life has often been a subject of gossip, especially her relationships with some of Bollywood’s leading men. Her marriage to Delhi businessman Mukesh Aggarwal in 1990 was one such chapter, but it ended tragically when Aggarwal took his own life just eight months later. Rekha was deeply affected by the incident but chose to maintain her silence. Even when harsh accusations were made against her, including being called a “witch” by her mother-in-law, Rekha handled it with grace and never retaliated.
Her ability to rise above personal hardships and keep her focus on her career has made Rekha a symbol of resilience.
A Career That Transformed Over the Years
Rekha started acting at a very young age, making her first Hindi film Sawan Bhadon in 1969. Initially, she had no interest in acting but continued to work, driven by circumstances. By 1975, however, Rekha had fully embraced her craft. Her role in Ghar as a rape survivor brought her critical acclaim, marking the beginning of her transformation into a serious actress.
Her dedication to improving herself is evident in her work. Despite struggling with her weight early in her career, Rekha reinvented herself by adopting yoga and a disciplined lifestyle, eventually becoming known for her slim and glamorous figure. She even taught herself Hindi and Urdu to deliver flawless performances in films like Umrao Jaan, despite not having formal training in either language or dance.
The Evergreen Star of Bollywood
Rekha’s list of iconic films is long. She delivered hits like Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978), Khoobsurat (1980), Umrao Jaan (1981), and Khoon Bhari Maang (1988). In Umrao Jaan, she played the role of a courtesan with such finesse that the film became synonymous with her name. The role earned her a National Film Award and solidified her place as one of India’s greatest actresses.
Even when she played unconventional roles, such as a negative character in Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi (1996) or a grandmother in Krrish (2006), Rekha’s performances were celebrated. She always maintained that she was an actor first and a star second, focusing on the characters she played rather than the size of the role.
Rekha’s Dream of Marriage and Her Untold Feelings
In a candid interview with Simi Garewal, Rekha once revealed that acting was never her dream. Growing up, she had always wanted to settle down and have a family. “I never wanted to be an actor. I wanted to get married and live a simple life,” she said. Despite her success in films, she couldn’t express her feelings openly, and personal relationships remained a sensitive subject for her.
Rekha has often been perceived as a private person who shields her emotions from the world. Even though she has had her share of struggles and controversies, she continues to challenge herself. Her remarkable 24-25 minute performance at the IIFA Awards 2024, where she danced with youthful energy, is a testament to her enduring passion for the arts.
The Rekha of Today: A Timeless Icon
At 70, Rekha remains an enigma. Her story is one of transformation, resilience, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Despite the ups and downs, she has stayed true to her craft and has never compromised on her principles. She may have faced criticism, gossip, and personal hardships, but Rekha has emerged stronger, continuing to inspire millions with her timeless beauty and unmatched talent.
