Rekha gave an interview to Filmfare in the year 2006 in which she candidly shared the reasons behind her and Amitabh Bachchan’s decision not to collaborate again after their 1981 film Silsila. This interview, which resurfaced on social media on Amitabh Bachchan’s 82nd birthday, gained attention for all the obvious reasons.
Rekha reflected on the extended break from working with Amitabh, admitting that it felt like a personal loss not to witness his incredible growth as an actor firsthand. She expressed pride, saying, “My loss is that I didn’t get a chance to share the phenomenal growth of Amitji as an actor.” Despite this, she found joy in opportunities where she dubbed for actresses like Sridevi (Aakhri Raasta) and Neetu Singh (Yaaraana).
On being questioned why they hadn’t reunited onscreen since Silsila, Rekha gave a thoughtful and philosophical explanation. She stated, “The only rational answer that I can think of is that the wait to be able to co-star with Amitji is worth it. That everything happens for the right reason at the right time.” Rekha explained that it wasn’t about the passing years but rather the directors’ inability to find a project that would do justice to their combined talent. In her words, “I truly believe that sabr ka phal meetha hota hai. In this case, time is not of the essence. That I know for sure.”
In a heartfelt birthday tribute to Amitabh, Rekha shared her wish that everyone, including she, could experience the privilege of having a role model like him in their lives. She prayed for his continued health and peace, acknowledging the profound impact he has had on those around him, even if he is unaware of it. Rekha said “Amitabh Bachchan is an experience. You have to feel the full blast to understand it”. To conclude, she shared a line from the movie Silsila, “Jo baat labzon mein adaa ho jaaye woh baat hi kya…” (What can be called a true expression when it can’t be conveyed in words).
Will the iconic pair ever share screen together now? What do you think?
