Veteran actress Farida Jalal once shared her challenging experience while working with the legendary Rajesh Khanna on the film Aradhana. Known for her collaborations with top talent, Farida revealed that her interactions with the superstar were quite difficult. She labeled him a “proud man,” noting how his fame surged following the film’s success.
In her appearance on The Ashoke Pandit Show, Farida Jalal acknowledged Rajesh Khanna’s unmatched fame, noting that no one has reached the same level of admiration since his time.She recognized his talent but admitted that they didn’t get along while filming Aradhana. She recalled an incident on set where, after requesting another rehearsal, Rajesh reacted sharply, leaving her quite frustrated.
The actress expressed her appreciation for her co-star Sharmila Tagore, who frequently defended her during tense moments on set. Farida mentioned that Sharmila would question Rajesh Khanna’s behavior, showing her support. Additionally, director Shakti Samanta backed Farida’s request for more rehearsals, which only heightened her frustration with Rajesh’s proud demeanor.
Farida recounted that her relationship with Rajesh Khanna only improved after Aradhana became a massive hit. However, she continued to feel uncomfortable with his immense fame and the attention he received from female fans. During promotional tours, she witnessed young women eagerly seeking autographs on various parts of their bodies, which left her shocked and frustrated. Farida expressed her anger over the lack of self-respect displayed by these fans, noting that even Sharmila Tagore would often feel embarrassed by the situation.
Despite Rajesh Khanna’s swift rise to fame, his personal struggles became apparent in later years, with many of his contemporaries noting his challenging personality. His career faced a steep decline in the 1980s, and he candidly shared in interviews how he struggled to cope with his diminishing stardom, resorting to alcohol to manage the situation.
Farida Jalal’s insights provide an honest look at her off-screen interactions with the legendary star, revealing how fame can impact relationships in the film industry. Her experiences emphasize the intense pressures that come with stardom and how they can reshape connections among colleagues.
