ASIA SCENE: A relaxed day with iconic queen of hearts

Rekha, the iconic beauty, continues to rule the world of Indian cinema despite the fact that she is no longer actively involved as a performer. PHOTO|COURTESY

What you need to know:

  • She underwent a transformation from a plump dark lady to a heart-throb sexy damsel.
  • This transformation boosted her image and stature in Bollywood.

Last Tuesday, I woke up early and joined the family for a special prayer for peace to prevail as we proceeded to vote for leaders of our choice. Back home after voting it was time to relax in front of the small screen and watch my favourite actress Rekha and her memorable film Umrao Jaan.

Rekha, the iconic beauty continues to rule the world of Indian cinema despite the fact that she is no longer actively involved as a performer. Born as Bhanurekha Ganesan to Tamil actor Gemini Ganesan and Telugu actress Pushpavati, Rekha initially appeared as a child artist in a Telugu movie Rangula Ratnam. Her Hindi film debut was in Sawan Bhadon in the seventies. She underwent a transformation from a plump dark lady to a heart-throb sexy damsel. This transformation boosted her image and stature in Bollywood.

In a career spanning over six decades, Rekha performed in numerous hit movies in a variety of lead roles with some of the best male actors of her time including the iconic Amitabh Bachan. Her achievements have been many and varied. She won the coveted Film-fare Award thrice, was voted as the best Kathak dancer and won the National recognition for her performance in Umrao Jaan. For this portrayal of a classical courtesan and poet of the 19th century Lucknow, Rekha went out to learn the finer nuances of Urdu language and poetry. This coupled with her achievements in numerous offbeat art-house movies raised her stature.

 Rekha has had many suitors and was married to tycoon Mukesh Aggarwal but the relationship tragically ended with him committing suicide.

Rekha has been honoured with the highest Indian civil decoration of Padma Shree and is currently a nominated Member of the Indian Upper House of Parliament the Rajya Sabha. Her demand as a leading lady in the prevailing style of Bollywood movies may have diminished but by all norms her feminine charm, poise and charisma reigns supreme.  She and her Umrao Jaan made my election day.