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6 lesser-known facts about Rekha that showcase her fascinating journey and timeless legacy

TOI Entertainment Desk
| ETimes.in | Last updated on - Mar 28, 2025, 21:00 IST
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1/6

She Was Body-Shamed in Her Early Days

When Rekha entered Bollywood as a teenager in the late 1960s, she was subjected to intense criticism for her dusky complexion and fuller figure. Many in the industry dismissed her as an ‘unconventional’ heroine, and she was often advised to change her appearance to fit the beauty standards of the time. However, instead of giving in to the pressure, Rekha reinvented herself. Through disciplined fitness, skincare, and grooming, she transformed into one of the most glamorous and sought-after actresses in Bollywood, proving that confidence and self-love are the ultimate beauty secrets.

2/6

She Wore Sindoor Publicly Without Officially Being Married

One of Bollywood’s most enduring mysteries revolves around Rekha’s sindoor. In 1980, she appeared at Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Singh’s wedding wearing sindoor and a mangalsutra, leading to wild speculation about her marital status. The media went into a frenzy, with rumors suggesting a secret marriage, particularly linking her to Amitabh Bachchan. Despite decades of curiosity, Rekha has never confirmed or denied the true reason behind this symbolic adornment, making it one of Bollywood’s most intriguing unsolved mysteries.

3/6

Her Connection to Hrithik Roshan’s Family

Rekha shares a deep connection with Hrithik Roshan and his family, beyond just being his on-screen mother in Koi... Mil Gaya (2003) and Krrish (2006). Few people know that Rekha had worked with Hrithik’s grandfather, J. Om Prakash, in the film Jaanwar (1982). She also maintains a warm and affectionate bond with Rakesh Roshan, whom she has known since the early days of her career. Hrithik has often expressed his admiration for Rekha, calling her an inspiration, and their off-screen camaraderie is just as beautiful as their reel-life mother-son relationship.

4/6

She Wasn't Fluent in Hindi Initially

Although Rekha became one of the most celebrated actresses in Bollywood, she initially faced a major challenge—her fluency in Hindi. Having grown up in Chennai, she was more comfortable with Tamil, and her early years in Bollywood were marked by struggles with diction and pronunciation. However, Rekha worked tirelessly to master the language, eventually developing a refined and poetic way of speaking. Today, her eloquence in Hindi, particularly in poetry and literature, is one of her most admired traits.

5/6

She Has a Passion for Painting

Beyond the glitz and glamour of the film industry, Rekha is an artist at heart. She finds solace in painting and is known to spend hours expressing herself through colors and canvas. While she has never publicly exhibited her artwork, those close to her reveal that painting is her personal retreat—something she indulges in to escape the chaos of stardom. It is yet another testament to her deeply creative and introspective nature.

6/6

Her Love for Gardening and Home Interiors

Rekha’s bungalow in Mumbai is a reflection of her love for nature and aesthetics. Unlike many celebrities who leave interior decoration to professionals, Rekha takes a hands-on approach to designing her home, filling it with vintage artifacts, handcrafted furniture, and lush greenery. Her garden is particularly special to her, and she is known to personally nurture the plants. This deep connection with nature mirrors her serene and spiritual side, making her home a true sanctuary of peace and beauty.

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Copyright © Jun 8, 2026, 04.05PM IST Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. All rights reserved. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service