Overview
Rajesh Khanna, the superstar nicknamed “The Phenomenon”, reigned supreme over Indian cinema in the 1970s. His charm, versatility, and acting prowess captivated audiences, making him one of the most beloved actors of all time.
Khanna’s career began in the mid-1960s, but it was the 1969 film Aradhana that catapulted him to superstardom. He excelled in a variety of roles, from romantic comedies to gritty dramas, showcasing his depth as an actor. His on-screen persona, a blend of charisma and vulnerability, resonated deeply with audiences.
Rajesh Khanna’s reign at the box office continued through the 1970s, with a record-breaking streak of 15 consecutive solo hit films! While his stardom dimmed somewhat in the later years, he continued to act well into the 1990s, leaving behind a rich filmography of over 180 films. His legacy lives on, not just in his films, but also in the hearts of millions of fans.
Field of contribution: Acting
Years when active: 1966-1999
Wiki site: Visit
SunilsLists link: Visit
Memorable movies:
Aap Ki Kasam, Amar Deep, Amar Prem, Anand, Andaz, Anurodh, Apna Desh, Aradhana, Avishkaar, Avtaar, Daag, Do Raaste, Dushmun, Haathi Mere Saathi, Ittefaq, Kati Patang, Khamoshi, Mere Jeevan Saathi, Namak Haraam, Sachaa Jhutha, Safar, Souten
Awards & Recognition:
Filmfare Awards (Best Actor)
1971 – Sachaa Jhutha
1972 – Anand
1975 – Avishkaar
Filmfare Special Awards
1973 – Anuraag (guest appearance)
1991 – Completing 25 years in the Indian Film Industry
2005 – Lifetime Achievement Award
2013 – Padma Bhushan (posthumous)
Frequent collaborators
Co-stars: Sharmila Tagore, Mumtaz, Asha Parekh, Hema Malini
Playback singer: Kishore Kumar
Music Directors: R.D. Burman, Laxmikant Pyarelal
Producer/Director: Shakti Samanta, Hrishikesh Mukherjee
Did you know?
Rajesh Khanna’s real name was Jatin Khanna. His uncle K.K. Talwar suggested that he change his stage name from Jatin to Rajesh
His foray into filmmaking started with a monumental talent hunt organized by Filmfare & United Producers in 1965. With a staggering 5,000 participants, Khanna’s natural charisma and acting prowess shone through, securing him the coveted first place and a commitment from many of the Hindi film industry’s top filmmakers to cast him in their films.
Khanna’s first starring role was in G.P. Sippy’s Raaz (1967) with another newcomer Babita. He had a small role in Chetan Anand’s Aakrhi Khat (1966), which was his first released film.
Khanna’s popularity was a cultural phenomenon in the early 1970s. Fans, especially women, showered him with adoration. Letters written in blood, cars covered in lipstick marks, and streets overflowing with frenzied admirers were common during his peak. He was affectionately nicknamed “Kaka” and his fan following dubbed “Kaka Mania,” a testament to the unparalleled devotion he inspired.
Despite a brief role with limited screen time in the movie Andaz (1971), Rajesh Khanna stole the show from the main stars Shammi Kapoor and Hema Malini.
Rajesh Khanna was a trendsetter who influenced fashion during his days as a superstar, popularizing the signature kurtas he wore in many of his films as well as the sunglasses he wore in Andaz.
Additional Information
Two great books with a lot of detailed information about Rajesh Khanna and his life and career are:
Dark Star: The Loneliness of Being Rajesh Khanna. by Gautam Chintamani (2014).
Rajesh Khanna: The Untold Story of India’s First Superstar, by Yasser Usman (2014).
A great writeup on Rajesh Khanna (at UpperStall.com) can be found here.