Rekha is a highly talented and wonderfully moody individual. I’ve watched her transform from a simple girl without much direction into a master of her craft who gave others direction. She has grown tremendously, not just in her command of Hindi and Urdu, but in her overall personality. She initially had some challenges with Urdu language and poetry, but with determination and the guidance of a tutor, she mastered it beautifully. Her grooming, presentation, acting skills, and method acting techniques showcase her commitment as a high-calibre actress. Her development has been nothing short of extraordinary.
She becomes a different person on the sets than what she is in real life. Given how moody she is in real life, it’s remarkable how she has always remained patient on the sets. Even after 15 or 20 retakes given by her co-stars on the sets, she has never lost her cool. She has always exhibited the zeal and enthusiasm of a newcomer. Even today, she rushes to the monitor to see the results of her work. Her capacity for experimentation and learning is remarkable. I fondly recall our first song together, Pyar ka samay, from Raampur Ka Lakshman (1972), where I danced with Rekha. It was unforgettable. I only took 13 retakes to match steps with her. We’ve experienced many highs and lows in our careers together and have worked on several films together like Raampur Ka Lakshman, Do Yaar (1972), Kashmakash (1973), Kahtey Hain Mujhko Raja (1975), Parmatma (1978), Jaani Dushman and, Muqabla (1979), Chehre Pe Chehra (1981), Maati Maangey Khoon (1984) and many more.
My wife, Poonam (Sinha) shares a close bond with Rekha, their birthdays fall close and it’s heartwarming to see her always reach out to wish Poonam. Thanks to my Sawal Jawab column in Filmfare, where I sometimes comment on her and she doesn’t always take it sportingly, we’ve had periods where she hasn’t spoken to me for a time. I remember a film where I starred along with Rekha, Khoon Bhari Maang (1988), directed by Rakesh Roshan, where we managed to convey so much on screen without even speaking to each other in between shots. It was Poonam who brokered peace between us. Made us shake hands. Indeed, Rekha has consistently proven to be a great professional, reminding us of the grace of Hema Malini. Let me add here that there was a time when because of my stupidity and her childishness, Hema and I weren’t on speaking terms but still completed many films together successfully.
It’s truly fitting that Filmfare is compiling this thesis on Rekha’s birthday—she deserves every bit of recognition. As she celebrates her 70th year, we must give full credit to the one and only Rekha, who has maintained her elegance, grace and mystique throughout the years.
Happy Birthday, Rekha! May you continue to shine brightly for years and years to come.
