…is one of several songs that have immortalized Rajesh Khanna in our hearts as one of the superstars of Hindi Cinema. During late 1960s, 70s and early 80s, his trademark style of acting and dialogue delivery kept the nation rapt while his undeniable charisma kept the ladies in raptures over his handsome persona.
Khanna ruled over Indian cinema as a lead in over 120 films, out of which, most of them were blockbuster hits. He holds the sole honor of delivering 15 consecutive solo hits in the Indian Cinema between the years 1969 to 71. How can anyone forget his soulful rendition in and as 'Anand' who stood his own, cast opposite the then rising star Amitabh Bachchan, the lover boy of ‘Aradhana’ who set the screen on fire with his co-star Sharmila Tagore in ‘Roop Tera Mastana’, or his captivating chemistry with Mumtaz in one of the classics, “Jai jai shiv shankar..”?
Lovingly christened ‘Kaka’ by the fraternity, Rajesh Khanna commanded respect from his peers as well as utmost affection. His contemporaries still remember the nation’s craze for the superstar and the way girls got married to his photograph.
Rajesh Khanna’s demise at the age of 70, at his humble abode, ‘Ashirwad’ this afternoon, after battling a long illness since April, has left a gaping hole in the film industry. In his own words, “Pushpa…Aansoo poch dalo. I hate tears!” from his famous movie, “Amar Prem” comes to mind. Let us all remember him for his contribution to Indian Cinema, for entertaining us by portraying a variety of roles that touched our hearts, and for performances that transcend time and generations.
RIP Rajesh Khanna! Rangmunchs’ heartfelt condolences to the loved ones he has left behind.
RM Adda