Rajesh Khanna and Dimple Kapadia’s marriage, once celebrated as a fairy-tale union, saw turbulence within a decade, leading to their separation. Despite living apart, they never legally ended their marriage, choosing to remain bound by paper but distant in life. Years later, Rajesh found companionship with former actress Anita Advani, a relationship that lasted from 2004 until his passing in 2012.
In a recent interview, Anita candidly discussed their relationship, sharing that Rajesh had given her a kada in front of the Balaji shrine as a symbol of their bond. She reflected on their time together, mentioning that after his separation from Dimple, he spent nearly 28 years alone before they found solace in each other’s company. While she recalled moments of warmth and affection, she also acknowledged the challenges, alleging instances of physical abuse when Rajesh was intoxicated. She admitted that during heated moments, she would retaliate, leading to arguments and confrontations. In an earlier interview with Rediff during Bigg Boss 7 in 2013, Anita had described Rajesh as a complex person—difficult to live with when under the influence, yet charming and magnetic when sober.
Rajesh Khanna, remembered as India’s first superstar, dominated Hindi cinema in the late 1960s and 1970s with an unparalleled streak of 15 consecutive solo hit films, a record yet to be broken. Born on December 29, 1942, he made his cinematic debut with Aakhri Khat (1966) and soon captivated audiences with legendary performances in films such as Aradhana, Anand, Kati Patang, and Amar Prem. His distinctive dialogue delivery, expressive eyes, and on-screen charisma cemented his status as a cultural icon.
Beyond his film career, Rajesh Khanna also made his mark in politics, serving as a Member of Parliament during the 1990s. His contributions to Indian cinema were recognized with numerous accolades, including three Filmfare Best Actor Awards and the prestigious Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award. He passed away on July 18, 2012, at the age of 69, leaving behind an enduring legacy that continues to inspire generations of cinephiles.
