On July 18, 2012, Bollywood, or rather Indian cinema, was left with a huge gaping hole when Rajesh Khanna passed away. The younger generation may have known him as Twinkle Khanna's father and Akshay Kumar's father-in-law. But go a few years before, and you would hear claims about him being Bollywood's first true-blue superstar; more fact than claim per se. Even Amitabh Bachchan, who ruled three decades (and still does so) with his angry young man image, could have never matched Khanna at the peak of his glory. If you believe all those incredible stories of fans writing letters to him in real blood or throwing themselves in front of his car, you would realise the mass hysteria this man created in the '60s and '70s was unparalleled.
Rajesh Khanna, who made his debut with the 1966 film Aakhri Khat, got his way paved for superstardom with the mega successes of Aradhana and Ittefaq. From thereon, there was no turning back as he delivered 17 superhits from 1969, with Badnaam Farishte breaking the record by being a flop. But that was a small niggle, as the actor continued to deliver hits after. It was after the rise of Amitabh Bachchan (who made a wonderful pairing with Khanna in Anand and Namak Haram) in the late '70s that showed the first signs in decline in Rajesh Khanna's superstardom. He continued to deliver hits like Swarg, Souten, Disco Dancer, Rajput, Dharm Aur Qanoon etc in this era, before he (ill-advisedly) joined politics.
Like Emraan Hashmi of our generation, the late Rajesh Khanna was associated with many beautiful gems of songs that continue to transcend decades and generations. Just try remembering any of your fave '70s track, and most probably, the song would feature a smiling or a glum Rajesh Khanna. So, on his 6th death anniversary, let's remember this Bollywood legend through seven of his most iconic, classic songs -
Mere Sapnon Ki Rani
Film: Aradhana
Of course, how can I make a list of Rajesh Khanna songs without mentioning his most cliched track? This song is a symbol of his arrival as a superstar and also forged a melodious, ever-lasting partnership with the great Kishore Kumar, who has sung this track (though the singer had sung for him before too).
Kuch Toh Log Kahenge
Film: Amar Prem
There is no doubt that Rajesh Khanna and Sharmila Tagore made one of the best onscreen pairings ever. This one is my personal fave purely for the lyrics by Anand Bakshi. Also, this remains one of the best songs by composer RD Burman and Kishore Kumar.
Kahin Door Jab Din Dhal Jaaye
Film: Anand
From one magnificently written song to another! There is no song that perfectly describes the whimsicality of the situation a dying man is in, who sees his last few days as a beautiful ode to life.
Woh Shaam Kuch Ajeeb Thi
Film - Khamoshi
Like I said before, Kishore Kumar had been Rajesh Khanna's singing voice even before Aradhana, and this lovely track from the black-n-white Khamoshi is a stark reminder of that!
Mere Naina Saawan Bhadon
Film: Mehbooba
Mehbooba has some amazing songs, but nothing can beat this evergreen melancholic track, that again has Kishore Kumar in prime form.
Diye Jalte Hai
Film: Namak Haram
I never understand why this song is never featured among the best friendship tracks in Bollywood. Beautifully written, subtly composed, Diye Jalte is a track that deserved to every friend that stood by you through your highs and lows. If you don't agree with me, maybe these lines might change your mind - "Daulat Aur Jawaani Ek Din Kho Jaati Hain, Sach Kehta Hoon Saari Duniya Dushman ho Jaati Hai, Umar Bhar Dost Lekin Saath Chalte Hain!"
O Mere Dil Ke Chain
Film: Mere Jeevan Saathi
A favourite Antakshari track. Definitely, one of the best romantic tracks ever composed. Rajesh Khanna's expressions in the track is a beginner's guide on how to be a lover boy!
I know seven songs can never do any kind of justice to the musical legacy of Rajesh Khanna. So please feel free to share your favourite song of the legendary superstar in the comments section below.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 18, 2018 10:12 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).