Rajesh Khanna Death Anniversary Special – “Babumoshai… Life Should Be Big, Not Long”

“Babumoshai… zindagi badi honi chahiye, lambi nahi.”

This dialogue from Rajesh Khanna’s iconic film Anand beautifully encapsulates the essence of his life and career. His unique style, the way he walked, his dialogue delivery, and the emotional depth in his performances — all of it came together to make him the first true Superstar in Indian cinema. His on-screen presence was like a gust of fragrant wind, touching hearts with its warmth and charm.

July 18 marks the day in 2012 when Hindi cinema lost its first superstar. On his 13th death anniversary, we pay tribute to the man, the legend — Rajesh Khanna.

Early Life & Journey to Stardom

Born as Jatin Khanna on December 29, 1942, in Amritsar, he was renamed Rajesh by his uncle when he stepped into the world of acting. His journey began in 1966 with the film Aakhri Khat, and by the 1970s, he had reached the peak of stardom.

A Cinematic Legacy

Rajesh Khanna’s film career was not just a list of hits — it was a cultural phenomenon. With over 160 films to his credit, nearly 106 were hits. Between 1969 and 1971, he delivered 17 consecutive superhits — a record that remains unbeaten.

Films like Aradhana, Kati Patang, Haathi Mere Saathi, Amar Prem made him not just a superstar, but ‘Kaka’ — a name that still brings a smile to many faces.

Other notable films include Sachaa Jhutha, Raaz, Aurat, Baharon Ke Sapne, Ittefaq, Doli, Aan Milo Sajna, Bawarchi, Daag, and Namak Haraam. For a long time, he was considered one of the most bankable stars in Indian cinema.

Immortal Through Songs

Every Rajesh Khanna film was also known for its music. His expressions paired with Kishore Kumar’s soulful voice gave birth to unforgettable classics such as: Mere Sapno Ki Rani (Aradhana), Roop Tera Mastana (Aradhana), Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai (Kati Patang), Zindagi Ke Safar Mein (Aap Ki Kasam), Kuch To Log Kahenge (Amar Prem), Jai Jai Shiv Shankar (Aap Ki Kasam).

From romantic heroes to tragic, comic, and intense characters — Rajesh Khanna portrayed every shade with unmatched finesse. He was not only a heartthrob but also a favorite among critics and audiences alike.

A Keen Eye for Talent

Rajesh Khanna had a sharp instinct for talent. He once noticed 13-year-old Poonam Dhillon in a crowd and complimented her eyes. She would later go on to act alongside him in the film Red Rose.

Love, Marriage, and Personal Life

In 1973, he married actress Dimple Kapadia when she was just 16 and he was 32. Their daughter Twinkle Khanna was born shortly after, followed by Rinke Khanna.

However, their marriage hit rough waters, and by 1984, they separated — although they never officially divorced. Dimple stood by him during his final days.

His name was also linked with actresses like Anju Mahendru and Tina Munim, but one thing remained constant — his undeniable charm.

The Fan Frenzy

Rajesh Khanna was more than just a superstar — he was an obsession.

Girls would write him letters in blood, light lamps in front of his posters, and even “marry” his photographs. His hairstyle, his mischievous smile — everything about ‘Kaka’ made hearts race. His fan following was deeply emotional, far beyond the digital admiration of today’s social media influencers.

Rise of the ‘Angry Young Man’ and the Changing Times

As the mid-70s ushered in the rise of Amitabh Bachchan and the era of the ‘angry young man’, Rajesh Khanna's brand of romantic intensity began to wane.

Cinema and society shifted towards more rebellious narratives, and the gentle hero began to fade at the box office. But Kaka never gave up.

He never distanced himself from acting or the changing times. He continued working — in films, on TV, on stage — and lived with grace and dignity, inspiring many.

Whether entering politics or doing television commercials later in life, he never allowed defeat to define him.

Awards and Recognitions

• Filmfare Best Actor Awards: Sachaa Jhutha (1971), Anand (1972), Avishkaar (1975)
• Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award: 2005
• Dadasaheb Phalke Academy Award: 2013
• Bengal Film Journalists’ Association Awards: Multiple wins and nominations
• All India Critics’ Awards: Multiple accolades
• Padma Bhushan (Posthumously): 2013, India’s third-highest civilian award

The Final Curtain Fell, But the Stage Remains

In 2012, at the age of 69, Rajesh Khanna breathed his last at his iconic bungalow Aashirwad, after battling cancer. This was the same bungalow that once echoed with the frenzy of fans, overflowing with letters, flowers, and love — even blood-signed notes. Even today, his presence lingers in the air of Aashirwad. He wasn’t just an actor — he was an era. And his fans continue to honor him as the first true superstar of Hindi cinema.

From Mayapuri, heartfelt tributes to this precious gem of Indian cinema on his death anniversary.

Kaka, you will always live in our hearts — “Because some people… just live forever in the heart.”

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