Vinod Khanna, a name that continues to resonate in the hearts of cinema lovers, was more than just a successful actor. From his early days as a villain on the silver screen to becoming one of Bollywood’s most loved heroes, Vinod’s journey is filled with remarkable twists. He was a man who constantly reinvented himself—not just in films but in life. Whether it was his short stint in spirituality or his foray into politics, Vinod Khanna’s life was truly fascinating. As we remember him on his birth anniversary (6th October), let’s take a fresh look at his unique path, one that took him from the glitz of Bollywood to the quietude of spirituality, and finally to the halls of Parliament.
The Rise of a Villain-Turned-Hero
Vinod Khanna made his debut in Bollywood at a time when superstars like Rajesh Khanna and Dharmendra ruled the screens, romancing heroines and saving the day. But Vinod’s entry into films was a breath of fresh air. Initially cast as a villain, his strong screen presence and rugged looks caught the attention of audiences and filmmakers alike. With films like Mann Ka Meet and Reshma Aur Shera, Vinod established himself as one of the most fearsome villains of his time.
It didn’t take long for Bollywood to realize that Vinod Khanna had the charisma of a leading man. His striking looks and acting skills soon paved the way for hero roles. By the mid-70s, Vinod was giving even Amitabh Bachchan a run for his money, sharing the screen with him in blockbusters like Muqaddar Ka Sikandar. In an era dominated by Amitabh, Vinod’s presence in the industry was formidable. His acting style, combined with his good looks, made him a favorite among the masses.
The Incident with Amitabh Bachchan
Though the Vinod-Amitabh pairing was a hit on screen, an unfortunate incident during the shooting of Muqaddar Ka Sikandar created a rift between the two. While filming a fight scene, a mistimed blow from Amitabh led to Vinod receiving 16 stitches on his chin. Although Amitabh apologized, Vinod reportedly never fully forgave him, and this incident marked the end of their popular onscreen partnership. Fans were left longing for more films featuring the two giants together, but the incident seemed to have drawn a line between them.
Vinod Khanna’s Blockbuster Qurbani
While Amitabh continued to dominate the box office, one film in particular became a huge milestone for Vinod Khanna—Qurbani (1980). Directed by Feroz Khan, the film was a massive success. From the storyline to the music, Qurbani had everything a Bollywood hit needed. The movie not only earned Vinod immense fame but also left Amitabh regretting his decision to pass up the film. Qurbani established Vinod as one of the biggest stars of that time, challenging the dominance of Amitabh Bachchan.
A Spiritual Turn: The Osho Phase
At the peak of his career, Vinod Khanna made a decision that shocked the entire film industry. In 1982, he left Bollywood and moved to Oregon, USA, to join the ashram of spiritual leader Osho. For five years, Vinod lived a simple life as a gardener and caretaker at the ashram. This move baffled his fans and peers alike. Many speculated on why a man who had everything—fame, wealth, and success—would walk away from it all. In later interviews, Vinod admitted that the decision was driven by a deep inner calling, and though he found peace for some time, the life of a monk did not come without its challenges.
His family life also suffered during this period. Vinod’s wife filed for divorce, and his career in Bollywood seemed to be over. Yet, after five years, Vinod returned to India, and to films, ready to start afresh.
A New Chapter: Politics and Films
After returning from his spiritual journey, Vinod Khanna seamlessly transitioned back into Bollywood. The 90s saw him in films like CID, Jurm, and Kshatriya, proving that he still had what it takes to be a leading man. However, Vinod’s ambitions extended beyond cinema. In 1997, he entered politics and was elected as a Member of Parliament from Gurdaspur. He went on to win the seat four times and even served as a minister in the central government. His political career was as successful as his film career, showing once again his ability to excel in whatever he chose to pursue.
Final Years and Legacy
Vinod Khanna continued acting even in his later years, featuring in hit films like Dabangg and Dabangg 2 alongside Salman Khan. His passion for acting remained undiminished, but his health began to deteriorate. In 2017, after a long battle with cancer, Vinod Khanna passed away. His death was a huge loss for the Indian film industry, but his legacy lives on through his memorable performances and the impact he made both in cinema and politics.
Vinod Khanna’s life is a testament to the fact that success is not just about achieving fame but also about staying true to oneself. Whether it was walking away from stardom at the height of his career or entering politics with the same commitment he showed in films, Vinod Khanna remained a man of principles. His journey will forever inspire generations to come.
