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Rekha's Remarkable Reinvention: From 'Sex Symbol' to Acclaimed Thespian
10 Oct
Summary
- Rekha transformed from a 'dark, plump, and gauche' newcomer to a versatile, acclaimed actor
- Shed 'diva persona' to deliver standout performances in films like 'Khubsoorat' and 'Ijaazat'
- Positioned herself as an 'artistic powerhouse' who mastered Bollywood
As Bollywood icon Rekha celebrates her 71st birthday on October 10th, 2025, the industry reflects on her remarkable journey from a 'dark, plump, and gauche' newcomer to one of the most versatile and compelling performers in Indian cinema.
In the late 1960s, Rekha faced harsh criticism and was often slotted as a 'sex symbol' in commercial films. However, driven by this adversity, she embarked on a fierce self-improvement mission, mastering Hindi and Urdu, refining her screen presence, and undergoing a dramatic physical transformation.
The breakthrough moment for Rekha as a serious performer came with films like 1978's 'Ghar', where she delivered a critically acclaimed performance as a middle-class wife coping with trauma. This solidified the fact that she was not just a gorgeous pin-up, but an actor with immense emotional depth.
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Rekha's true range and versatility, however, lie in the less-celebrated films where she deliberately shed her diva persona. In 'Khubsoorat' (1980), she delivered a masterclass in effervescent, natural comedy, while in 'Kalyug' (1981), she played a subtle, potent presence in an ensemble cast of acting titans. Her performance in 'Ijaazat' (1987) is particularly noteworthy, with Rekha's understated brilliance capturing the profound awkwardness and lasting affection between two people who failed at marriage.
By the time she took on the bold and controversial role in 'Aastha' (1997), Rekha had firmly established herself as an 'artistic powerhouse' who could anchor any film, regardless of genre or budget. She had transitioned from a desirable 'sex symbol' to a serious actor, and finally, to a powerful 'character actor' who could seamlessly inhabit diverse roles.
Rekha's journey was not just a physical makeover, but an artistic evolution that saw her deliberately choose roles that challenged her, allowing her to master the art of acting. As the world of cinema celebrates her 71st birthday, it's clear that Rekha didn't just survive in Bollywood; she mastered it, cementing her place as a true one-off in the industry.
