Rajesh Khanna: Biography, Wife, Children, Death, and Movies

Biography

• Full Name: Jatin Khanna
• Stage Name: Rajesh Khanna
• Born: December 29, 1942, Amritsar, Punjab, India
• Died: July 18, 2012, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
• Profession: Actor, Producer, and Politician
• Nickname: “Kaka”
• Known As: The first superstar of Indian cinema

Rajesh Khanna was one of the most iconic actors in the history of Indian cinema. His charm, screen presence, and romantic persona made him a household name in the 1970s. He won several awards, including Filmfare Awards and BFJA Awards, for his performances.

Wife

• Wife: Dimple Kapadia
  Rajesh Khanna married actress Dimple Kapadia in March 1973, just six months before the release of her debut film, Bobby. Their marriage was considered a significant event in Bollywood, and they became one of the most talked-about couples of their time.

Children

Rajesh Khanna and Dimple Kapadia had two daughters:

1. Twinkle Khanna: A former actress and now a renowned author and interior designer. She is married to Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar.
2. Rinke Khanna: A former actress who appeared in a few Bollywood films.

Death

• Date: July 18, 2012
• Cause: Rajesh Khanna passed away due to prolonged illness, including liver infection.
• Age: He was 69 years old at the time of his death.
  His demise marked the end of an era, and fans across the country mourned the loss of India’s first superstar. He was given a grand funeral with thousands of fans and celebrities attending.

Movies

Rajesh Khanna appeared in more than 150 films during his career, including 106 solo hero films. Here are some of his most iconic movies:

1. Aradhana (1969)
   • Role: Arun/Vandana’s love interest
   • Known for the iconic song “Mere Sapno Ki Rani”.
2. Anand (1971)
   • Role: Anand, a cancer patient
   • Famous dialogue: “Babumoshai, zindagi badi honi chahiye, lambi nahi.”
3. Kati Patang (1970)
   • Role: Kamal
   • Known for the song “Yeh Shaam Mastani”.
4. Amar Prem (1972)
   • Role: Anand Babu
   • Famous dialogue: “Pushpa, I hate tears.”
5. Bawarchi (1972)
   • Role: Raghu, a cook with a mysterious past
   • A feel-good family drama.
6. Namak Haraam (1973)
   • Co-star: Amitabh Bachchan
   • A drama about friendship and class struggles.
7. Roti (1974)
   • Role: Mangal Singh
   • A classic Bollywood action-drama.
8. Daag: A Poem of Love (1973)
   • Role: Sunil
   • A romantic drama with a gripping plot.
9. Haathi Mere Saathi (1971)
   • Role: Raju
   • Known for its emotional story involving elephants.
10. Aap Ki Kasam (1974)
    • Role: Kamal
    • Famous for songs like “Karvatein Badalte Rahe.”

Legacy

Rajesh Khanna remains an eternal icon of Indian cinema. His contributions to Bollywood set benchmarks for stardom and romantic storytelling. Even after his death, his movies and songs continue to inspire generations of actors and fans alike.