Actress Rekha is celebrating her 71st birthday today. Rekha, considered one of Indian cinema's most iconic actresses, continues to be a topic of discussion for her beauty, fitness, and style. However, this success and acclaim did not come easily.
Entertainment News: Rekha, who began her career as a child artist in Telugu films, came from a family deeply connected to the arts; her father Gemini Ganesan and mother Pushpavalli were also accomplished artists. When Rekha entered Hindi cinema, she faced negative comments regarding her physique and dark complexion. Furthermore, her dressing sense and makeup were often ridiculed. It was even said that she was an actress merely "placed like a doll" in films, with no expectations of her acting prowess.
Early Career and Initial Struggles
Rekha, whose parents Gemini Ganesan and Pushpavalli were renowned artists, started her career as a child artist in Telugu films. Upon her entry into Hindi cinema, she received much criticism for her dark complexion and slender physique. At the time, film journalists, producers, and directors even stated that Rekha was “placed like a doll in films, with no expectations of her acting.”
These comments challenged Rekha's confidence. She was repeatedly compared to actresses like Hema Malini and was often labeled as bold and carefree on set. Film magazines even wrote that Rekha wasn't serious, which led to no one taking her seriously.
Career Turning Point – Films Changed the Narrative
Rekha decided to transform herself. She embraced yoga and fitness, lost weight, and focused on her grooming. Around 1977, she also became more discerning in her film choices. She began selecting roles that could showcase her acting talent. In 1978, Rekha's film 'Ghar' was released, where she played the role of a rape victim. Her emotive and sensitive performance proved to be impactful with critics. This was followed by 'Muqaddar Ka Sikandar,' in which she displayed tremendous chemistry with Amitabh Bachchan.
Subsequently, she carved a place in the hearts of audiences through her role as a courtesan. Her on-screen pairing with Amitabh Bachchan proved to be a hit, and news of their alleged affair also garnered significant attention.
Memorable Films
In 1980, Rekha proved her ability to carry a film single-handedly with her portrayal of a lively girl in Hrishikesh Mukherjee's 'Khubsoorat.' Following this, she showcased her acting prowess in films like 'Umrao Jaan,' 'Utsav,' and Shyam Benegal's 'Kalyug.' Rekha forged her unique identity in Bollywood through her distinct style and powerful performances in every role.
Once a girl from South India who faced criticism for her accent and attire, she is known today as a style icon and talented actress of Indian cinema.
