Rajesh Khanna's Love Triangle: Anju Mahendru's Sacrifice Revealed

Rajesh Khanna and Anju Mahendru were deeply involved for nearly seven years, beginning when they were aspiring actors. Their relationship, marked by affectionate nicknames and mutual support, eventually faced strain. Personal differences reportedly impacted their professional interactions on set.

As Khanna's fame grew with his bungalow Aashirvaad, Mahendru was a frequent visitor, yet faced disapproval from his mother. During a period of separation, Mahendru became engaged to cricketer Garry Sobers but broke it off, stating she was still in love with Khanna. She later expressed that Khanna became controlling, wanting her to wait for him.

Mahendru accused Khanna of pressuring her to abandon her burgeoning career as a model and actress, claiming he did not want her films to be released. Khanna, in turn, questioned the significance of her roles. The relationship ultimately ended with the arrival of Dimple Kapadia in Khanna's life.

Mahendru recalled Kapadia's calculated demeanor. Khanna's wedding to Kapadia in 1973 famously saw his baraat pass by Mahendru's residence. Following Khanna and Kapadia's separation years later, Mahendru and Khanna reconnected, sharing a conversation after a 17-year silence, though they never resumed their romantic relationship.

Anju Mahendru never married but remained a close friend to Rajesh Khanna and his family until his passing in 2012.