The man who became the first “Superstar” of Hindi cinema with his screen savvy ways and romantic aura. The man, who during the seventies, was at the pinnacle of fame and glory—Rajesh Khanna, a hero, a producer and also a politician celebrates his 69th birthday today.
Fondly addressed as ‘Kaka’, Jatin Khanna (he was rechristened as Rajesh Khanna when he entered Bollywood) was born on 29 December, 1942 in Amritsar. His charismatic ways and elegance made him popular not just among women but all the Bollywood-crazy fans. He is the lone actor to have delivered fifteen successive super hits.
Rajesh Khanna was the first “ Superstar” of Hindi cinema. Image from ibnlive
Khanna was brought up by foster parents, friends of his biological parents. His fondness for stage performance came to surface during his school days at St. Sebastian School, Girgaun. After winning an ‘All India Talent Contest’ Jatin Khanna decided to take a final plunge into the filmdom with his celluloid name Rajesh Khanna in Chetan Anand’s Aakhri Khat.
Despite creating ripples with films such as Aurat, Ittefaq and Baharon Ke Sapne — it was Shakti Samanta’s Aradhana which saw him shooting to phenomenal fame and national glory. Aradhana — the enchanting saga of romance and music projected the stylish performer in a dual role. The movie established Kishore Kumar as Rajesh Khanna’s signature playback voice.
Rajesh Khanna’s list of hits includes Sachaa Jhutha, Haathi Mere Saathi, Amar Prem, Do Raaste, Anand, Avtar and Souten. From 1969 to 1973, he had 15 consecutive hits.
He won three Filmfare Best Actor Awards and was nominated for the same 14 times. He received the maximum BFJA Awards for Best Actor (Hindi) – four times and was nominated 25 times. He was awarded the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005.
Rajesh Khanna married Dimple Kapadia in 1973. The duo separated in 1984 as Khanna’s schedule kept him away much of the time and Dimple became interested in pursuing an acting career. Twinkle and Rinke, Rajesh Khanna’s two daughters, are also popular Bollywood actors.
Rajesh Khanna was a Member of Parliament for the Congress Party, from the New Delhi constituency, where he won the 1992 by-election, retaining his seat until the 1996 election. He has since been a political activist for the Congress.
A career marked by awe-inspiring fan following and extraordinary success, Rajesh Khanna made a mark in Bollywood and still remains one of the most beloved actors.
Here’s wishing the ‘Superstar’ a very Happy Birthday.
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