In Hindi cinema, there are several stars whose radiance only grows with time rather than fading. Rekha is one such icon. Clad in a golden saree, with a large bindi on her forehead, deep, expressive eyes, and a captivating smile, her signature style continues to enchant people to this day. Yet, her life story extends far beyond mere beauty and fame. Having entered the film industry out of necessity, Rekha faced numerous challenges—ranging from the difficulties of mastering the Hindi language to enduring harsh criticism regarding her appearance.

Through sheer hard work and acting prowess, she carved out an identity so distinct that anecdotes about her films and personal life continue to make headlines. On the occasion of her birthday, let us share some fascinating stories from her life—some of which she has recounted herself.

Why did Rekha enter the film industry?
One of the most intriguing chapters of Rekha's life concerns the beginning of her film career. Although she is now counted among Bollywood's legendary actresses, becoming an actress was never her childhood dream. She was compelled to work in films at a young age due to her family's financial needs. In past interviews, Rekha revealed that she never aspired to be an actress; rather, she was practically forced into the profession. She mentioned that she had been working since the age of three and arrived in Bombay to pursue acting when she was thirteen.

How did Rekha get her break in Hindi cinema?
Speaking to the BBC in 1986, Rekha recounted how two brothers, Kuljit Pal and Shatrujit Pal, had come to Madras in search of a new leading lady for their film. They asked if she knew Hindi, and she replied, "No." They then asked if she wanted to work in Hindi films; again, she said, "No." Despite this, the brothers told her, "Alright, we will come back tomorrow to sign you up." According to Rekha, it was simply her destiny to enter the world of Hindi cinema. 

Rekha was once busy shooting for nearly 40 films simultaneously
An anecdote from Rekha's career highlights her immense work capacity. In an interview with *Filmfare*, she revealed that she was incredibly busy during the late 1970s and early 1980s. She would work up to three shifts a day at Annapurna Studios in Hyderabad. According to Rekha, there was a time when around 40 of her films were in various stages of production. Due to the relentless shooting schedule, she often had to rest right on the set. She mentioned that she would catch a few moments of sleep in her Volkswagen car and even change her makeup there when necessary.

Did not undergo formal Urdu training for 'Umrao Jaan'
*Umrao Jaan*, released in 1981, stands out as one of Rekha's most memorable films. Directed by Muzaffar Ali, the film saw her portray the role of a poetess and courtesan. Her performance, dance, and dialogue delivery captivated the audience.

Interestingly, in a 1986 interview with the BBC, Rekha revealed that she had not undergone any formal Urdu training for the film. She also remarked that she did not feel she had done anything extraordinary to warrant a National Film Award. Notably, Rekha did go on to win the National Film Award for Best Actress for this role. To this day, *Umrao Jaan* is considered one of the most significant films of her career.

Linked with Vinod Khanna
Early in her career, during the 1972 shoot of the film *Ek Bechara*, Rekha was also linked with Jeetendra. At the time, Shobha Kapoor was Jeetendra's girlfriend, though she lived abroad for work-related reasons. However, Jeetendra was not willing to leave Shobha for Rekha. According to Yasser Usman's book *Rekha: The Untold Story*, during the shoot of a film, Jeetendra remarked to a colleague that Rekha was merely a way for him to "pass time." Rekha overheard this, and the two subsequently broke up.

Did Rekha marry Vinod Mehra?
In 1973, Rekha was romantically linked to actor Vinod Mehra, and their alleged affair became a subject of much discussion. Vinod Mehra had already been married and divorced twice.

In his book, Yasser Usman mentions that Rekha and Vinod Mehra got married in Kolkata; however, when Vinod brought the actress home, his mother humiliated Rekha and threw her out of the house.

Subsequently, their relationship came to an end. It is worth noting that in an interview with Simi Garewal, Rekha denied ever marrying Vinod Mehra, describing him instead as a well-wisher. Apart from Jeetendra and Vinod Mehra, Rekha was also linked to actors such as Navin Nischal, Kiran Kumar, and Raj Babbar.

**On-screen pairing and films with Amitabh Bachchan**
Following this, 'Big B' entered Rekha's life. The pairing of Rekha and Amitabh Bachchan is counted among the most famous in Hindi cinema. They worked together in a total of 11 films, including *Do Anjaane*, *Muqaddar Ka Sikandar*, *Mr. Natwarlal*, and *Silsila*. Audiences appreciated their chemistry in these films; *Silsila*, in particular, remains a topic of discussion to this day.

**Amitabh as an influential figure for Rekha**
Amitabh and Rekha worked together in the 1976 film *Do Anjaane*. At the time, Big B was already a superstar and a married man, while Rekha was seeking better roles for her career. Amitabh helped her significantly during the shoot.

In an interview, Rekha revealed, "The industry treated me very poorly in the beginning. People used to mock my dark complexion, weight, and South Indian accent. Later, I transformed myself physically. I learned to speak Hindi and started getting big film offers.

When I was cast opposite Amitabh in *Do Anjaane*, I found it hard to believe. I couldn't even stand properly in his presence. He entered my life as an influential figure and brought about dramatic changes. I had never seen anyone like him before."

**Rumors of an affair between Amitabh and Rekha**
While working on films together, rumors of an affair between the two were also rife. Although neither of them ever confirmed these rumors, Rekha has frequently praised Amitabh on various occasions. In an interview with Simi Garewal, Rekha said, "Of course, I love him. Take all the love in the world and add even more to it—that is how I feel about that man.

I see him at award functions, and that is enough for me. It isn't necessary for me to speak to him; he completely occupies my thoughts. He is very special to me. Even if he doesn't say a word to me or even look my way, I would still be happy."

Rekha arrived at Rishi and Neetu's wedding wearing *sindoor* and a *mangalsutra*.
The actress arrived at Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Singh's wedding with *sindoor* in her hair parting and a *mangalsutra* around her neck. Everyone present was astonished to see this. All camera lenses shifted from the bride and groom to Rekha. Speculation began everywhere about whom the actress had married.

When the actress was later asked about it, she explained that she had been in the middle of a film shoot and had come straight to the wedding from the set.

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