“Untold Turmoil: The Iconic Rajesh Khanna and Anju Mahendru’s Tumultuous Love Story Revealed”
The legendary superstar of Indian cinema, Rajesh Khanna, had a complex and turbulent relationship with actor Anju Mahendru, marked by conflicting views and unresolved emotions. In a candid interview, Anju Mahendru revealed the strain in their relationship due to Khanna’s orthodox views clashing with her modern lifestyle, particularly her clothing choices. Their relationship, which fascinated fans for decades, was highlighted in a revealing 1987 ‘Screen’ magazine article that featured interviews with Anju, Dimple Kapadia, Tina Munim, and Khanna himself.
Anju recounted the awkwardness of their first conversation after 17 years of estrangement. She never yielded to the overwhelming influence of Khanna’s stardom, often being critical of his work, which she believed was necessary. Khanna, on the other hand, admitted he sought a simple nod of approval from her but often found her ruthlessly critical.
Despite his superstar status, Khanna valued Anju’s company above all, even becoming frantic if she was not at the bungalow he gifted her. Anju described Khanna as a man of contradictions, an orthodox individual attracted to ultra-modern women, which often led to confusion in their relationship. He would snap at her for wearing a skirt, and then criticize her for donning a saree.
Dimple Kapadia also shared insights into Khanna’s behavior, revealing that despite being lauded as gorgeous by everyone, she never received a word of praise from Khanna. In a passive-aggressive gesture, Khanna ensured his wedding procession with Dimple passed by Anju’s house.
Khanna, known for his charming screen presence and unique style, enjoyed immense popularity with his films running to packed houses. Despite a decline in his career in the late 1970s and 1980s, he remained a beloved figure, later transitioning to television and politics, serving as a Member of Parliament from 1992 to 1996. Rajesh Khanna passed away on July 18, 2012, leaving behind a legacy as one of Indian cinema’s most influential actors.
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