Rajesh Khanna, often referred to as the “First Superstar” of Indian cinema, was an actor whose name became synonymous with the romantic era of Bollywood in the 1960s and 70s. With his charismatic smile and signature head tilt, Khanna not only captured the hearts of millions but also etched his presence as a true legend in the annals of Indian film history.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jatin Khanna (Rajesh Khanna) |
| Profession | Actor, Politician |
| Net Worth | Estimated $65 million (at the time of his death) |
| Age (at the time of death) | 69 |
| Spouse(s) | Dimple Kapadia (m. 1973; sep. 1984) |
| Children | Twinkle Khanna, Rinke Khanna |
| Nationality | Indian |
Born on December 29, 1942, in Amritsar, Punjab, Rajesh Khanna rose to stardom with a string of blockbuster films that became the hallmark of his illustrious career. From playing the lead in “Aradhana” to the unforgettable “Anand”, his journey was nothing short of cinematic folklore.
Career and Stardom
Khanna’s rise in Bollywood was meteoric. His film “Aradhana” (1969) alongside Sharmila Tagore catapulted him to unprecedented stardom, earning him the moniker of the “First Superstar” of India. He enjoyed mass adulation that few actors have experienced, with a record 15 consecutive solo hits, a feat unmatched to this day.
His natural flair for romance and drama allowed him to portray a variety of roles with ease and finesse. Whether it was the tragic hero, the dapper gentleman, or the lovable rogue, Khanna brought a unique authenticity to his characters, making him a favorite across generations.
Personal Life and Legacy
Rajesh Khanna’s personal life was as much in focus as his films. His marriage to actress Dimple Kapadia in 1973 was the talk of the nation. The couple had two daughters, Twinkle and Rinke, both of whom later entered the film industry.
Despite his separation from Dimple Kapadia, the couple never divorced, and she was by his side during his last days. Khanna’s charisma extended beyond cinema as he ventured into politics in the late 80s, serving as a Member of Parliament.
Rajesh Khanna passed away on July 18, 2012, leaving behind a legacy that continues to be celebrated. His films remain a testament to his talent and his impact on Indian cinema is immeasurable.
FAQs About Rajesh Khanna
- Who was Rajesh Khanna? The “First Superstar” of Indian cinema and a former politician.
- What was Rajesh Khanna’s real name? His real name was Jatin Khanna.
- How many films did Rajesh Khanna act in? He appeared in more than 160 films.
- What was Rajesh Khanna’s net worth? His estimated net worth at the time of his death was around $65 million.
- Was Rajesh Khanna married? Yes, to Dimple Kapadia in 1973.
- How many children did Rajesh Khanna have? He had two daughters, Twinkle and Rinke.
- What were some of Rajesh Khanna’s most famous films? “Aradhana”, “Anand”, “Kati Patang”, and “Amar Prem” are among his most iconic films.
- Did Rajesh Khanna receive any national awards? He received the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005.
- Which political party did Rajesh Khanna belong to? He was a member of the Indian National Congress.
- When did Rajesh Khanna pass away? He died on July 18, 2012.
- Did Rajesh Khanna have a signature gesture? Yes, his head tilt and smile were considered his signature gestures.
- What made Rajesh Khanna an icon of romance? His charming screen presence and ability to portray love stories with deep emotion made him an icon of romance.
- What was Rajesh Khanna’s last film? His last released film was “Riyasat” (2014), which was released posthumously.
- How did Rajesh Khanna impact Indian cinema? He redefined stardom and was a major influence on both contemporary and later actors.
- Was Rajesh Khanna honored posthumously? Yes, he has been posthumously honored with several tributes and has a road named after him in Mumbai.
