As Bollywood remembers Rajesh Khanna, the first superstar of Hindi cinema, on what would have been his 82nd birth anniversary, controversies surrounding his personal life and legacy continue to make headlines. Known for his magnetic charm and extraordinary career, Khanna’s life was also marked by complex relationships and tumultuous personal decisions.
Rajesh Khanna, lovingly called Kaka, left an indelible mark on Indian cinema with a string of blockbusters. His fan following was unparalleled, with admirers showering love on him and his white car. However, his professional decline in the late 70s, coupled with personal struggles, painted a bittersweet picture of his stardom.
In his will, reportedly made a month before his death on July 18, 2012, Khanna left his vast fortune and iconic bungalow, Aashirwad, to his daughters, Twinkle and Rinke. Notably, his wife, Dimple Kapadia, was excluded from the inheritance. However, a day before his demise, Anita Advani, Khanna’s alleged live-in partner of almost a decade, sent a legal notice to his family, claiming her rights to his estate.
Advani, who referred to herself as Khanna’s “surrogate wife,” revealed her close involvement in his life during his final years. She stated that she took care of him, managed Aashirwad, and even performed rituals like Karva Chauth for him. Despite her claims, Khanna’s family reportedly distanced her during his last days and excluded her from the funeral proceedings.
In her interview with ETimes, Advani asserted her right to compensation, citing the years she dedicated to Khanna’s care and companionship. “I was by his side during his loneliest phase,” she remarked. Advani also emphasized Khanna’s wish to turn Aashirwad into a museum, a dream she feels was ignored after his passing.
When asked why she didn’t raise these issues during Khanna’s lifetime, Advani stated, “I was in love with the man. I didn’t bring up the subject of money because I was never with him for his wealth.” However, after facing alleged mistreatment by his family, she felt compelled to seek legal recourse.
While controversies cloud his legacy, Rajesh Khanna remains an iconic figure whose contributions to Indian cinema are celebrated. As fans and the industry honor his memory, his life story serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities behind fame and the human desire for connection and recognition.
