Rajesh Khanna, often hailed as the first superstar of Hindi cinema, experienced a level of stardom that few have ever known. His impact on Indian society and popular culture was unparalleled, triggering mass hysteria and fan frenzy rarely seen before or since. Stories of his popularity are now legendary, but one particular anecdote perfectly encapsulates the sheer madness surrounding the actor.
A co-star once recounted an event in Pune where Khanna's arrival brought the city to a standstill for seven hours. The crowd was so immense and uncontrollable that paramilitary forces had to be called in to manage the situation. What's more, devoted female fans physically held onto the tyres of his car, preventing him from moving. This extreme display of adoration highlights the captivating charm and magnetic personality that Khanna possessed, which transcended the boundaries of mere celebrity status.
Born Jatin Khanna on December 29, 1942, in Amritsar, Punjab, Rajesh Khanna made his acting debut in 1966 with "Aakhri Khat," which was also India's first official entry to the Academy Awards in 1967. However, it was his role as an Indian Air Force officer in the 1969 film "Aradhana" that catapulted him to superstardom. The film's success, fueled by iconic songs like "Mere Sapno Ki Rani" and "Roop Tera Mastana," established Khanna as a romantic hero, capturing the hearts of millions.
Khanna's appeal was unique; he wasn't just an actor; he was an icon. Women wrote him letters in blood, kissed his car leaving lipstick marks, and lined the streets to catch a glimpse of him. During the peak of his career, simply entering a hotel in Madras would result in queues of 600 girls waiting to see him, even at midnight. Veteran actress Mumtaz, who starred alongside Khanna in ten films, often teased him about his immense fan following.
Beyond the glamour, Khanna's personal life also drew considerable attention. His marriage to Dimple Kapadia in 1973, who was a newcomer at the time, further solidified his status as a national obsession. Though they separated in 1982, their relationship remained a topic of public interest.
Rajesh Khanna's reign as the king of Bollywood may have been matched by others, but the mania surrounding him remains unmatched. His films, his style, and his persona created a cultural phenomenon that continues to be remembered and celebrated today. He received five Filmfare Awards and was posthumously awarded the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian honor, in 2013. He passed away on July 18, 2012, leaving behind a legacy of unparalleled stardom.
