The wedding of Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Singh on January 22, 1980, remains a significant event in Bollywood lore, not just for uniting two prominent stars, but also for an incident that continues to fascinate and fuel speculation: Rekha's dramatic entry, adorned with sindoor, and its alleged impact on Jaya Bachchan.
The wedding was a grand affair, attended by the who's who of the film industry, including Amitabh Bachchan and his wife, Jaya. Amidst the celebration and merriment, Rekha's arrival caused a visible shift in the atmosphere. She entered the venue wearing a white sari, a red bindi, and sindoor, traditionally worn by married women. This bold statement immediately sparked whispers and turned heads, especially since rumors of a romance between Rekha and Amitabh Bachchan had been circulating for years.
According to eyewitness accounts and reports from the time, Rekha walked directly towards Amitabh Bachchan and engaged him in a conversation that lasted for several minutes. The exchange appeared intense and emotionally charged, drawing the attention of everyone present. While the exact content of their conversation remains a mystery, its impact was undeniable.
Amidst this drama, Jaya Bachchan is said to have been unable to maintain her composure. Sources claim that seeing Rekha approach her husband in such a conspicuous manner, and perhaps feeling the weight of the long-standing rumors, caused her to break down in tears. A Stardust report from that time stated that "Jaya tried to keep a stoic front for a long time, but eventually she had to bend her head and let the tears roll down."
Rekha, however, later offered a different explanation for her appearance that evening. In an interview, she clarified that she had come to the wedding straight from a film shoot and had simply forgotten to remove her sindoor and mangalsutra, which were part of her character's getup.
Regardless of the reason behind Rekha's sindoor, the incident at Rishi and Neetu Kapoor's wedding became a defining moment in the narrative surrounding the alleged love triangle between Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, and Rekha. It highlighted the complexities of their relationships and the emotional turmoil that was believed to be simmering beneath the surface.
The incident also speaks volumes about the societal pressures and expectations placed on women, especially in the public eye. Jaya Bachchan, a successful actress in her own right, was reportedly left in tears, while Rekha was labeled as bold and rebellious. The incident continues to be a subject of speculation and discussion, illustrating the enduring fascination with the personal lives of Bollywood stars and the intricate web of relationships, rivalries, and heartaches that define the industry.
