The Rise of Rajesh Khanna: The First Superstar of Bollywood

Introduction

In the vast and dynamic film industry of Bollywood, the name Rajesh Khanna will always hold a special place. Born in the late 1940s, he rose to fame in the late 1960s and early 1970s, becoming the first and perhaps most influential superstar of Bollywood. His remarkable journey is a testament to his God-given talent and his unique contribution to the Indian film industry.

The Making of a Superstar

There was only one true romantic superstar before Amitabh Bachchan's rise to stardom, and that was Rajesh Khanna. He was not just an actor, but a heartthrob and the darling of most women in India during his heyday. The films that he starred in not only grossed massive box office hits but also created a cultural wave that launched the Hindi film industry to new heights.

From 1969 to 1971, Rajesh Khanna delivered a stunning thirteen hit films in a row. This is a record that has never been broken and is unlikely to ever be equaled. His films, such as 'Akhiri Khat,' 'Kati Patang,' and 'Saccha Jhuta,' not only won him critical acclaim but also a substantial fan base that continues to this day.

The Iconic Image

Rajesh Khanna's legendary status was not just due to his acting skills but also his magnetic charm and unique screen presence. His performances in films like 'Anand' and 'Bawarchi' touched the hearts of many viewers, making him the God of Bollywood in the process. He even became a cultural icon, with women and girls writing letters to him with their blood and some even getting married to his photographs.

He was considered the first perfect and handsome actor in Bollywood. His persona as Lord Krishna also made him a cultural symbol for many girls, who saw him as their ideal romantic figure. Combined with his acting talent, Rajesh Khanna became an icon, a status that no other actor had managed to achieve in the early days of Bollywood.

The Downfall of a Superstar

However, Rajesh Khanna's star gradually faded. This was primarily due to his inability to transition into character roles consistently. He remained averse to taking up challenging parts, which ultimately led to a decline in his popularity and relevance in the film industry. His early destiny as a hero-only actor meant that when the landscape of Bollywood began to change, he was not prepared to adapt.

Legacy and Recognition

Despite his untimely death in 1987, Rajesh Khanna's legacy lives on. In 1992, he was posthumously awarded the Padma Bhushan, one of India's highest civilian honors. His contribution to the Hindi film industry is recognized and celebrated, making him an integral part of Bollywood's history.

While Dharmendra, another versatile and popular actor of his time, is also noted for his handsome demeanor, it was Rajesh Khanna who pioneered the era of stardom in Bollywood. He was a true pop icon, a phenomenon that still resonates with cinephiles and fans around the world.