Rekha, is the symbol of grandeur, dignity, and femininity in the world of Hindi Cinema.
Often referred to as the “eternal beauty” of Indian cinema, Rekha has captivated her audience with her films and her larger-than-life persona for over five decades. With her unprecedented mastery, elegance, and mystifying persona, Rekha reigns as the everlasting symbol of magnificence and dignity in the land of Bollywood.
Rekha for Vogue Arabia. Source: Vogue Arabia
The Stepping Stones
In the embrace of Telugu cinema, a young star was born on October 10, 1954, in Chennai, as the daughter of legendary figures. Her father, Gemini Ganesan, was hailed as the Kadhal Mannan, the King of Romance, within the Tamil film industry. Meanwhile, her mother, Pushpavalli, a radiant Telugu actress, recognized her daughter’s extraordinary talent from a tender age.
It was her mother, a stirring figure of grace and wisdom, who guided the young mind of Rekha. She taught her daughter the art of living with elegance and love, infusing her with the radiance of a true devi. Like a divine saga, she reminded Rekha to never lose the ankh ki chamak, for it was that joyous spark that allowed one to witness the enchantment of life’s smallest wonders, like a tiny seed blossoming into a majestic tree.
Rekha with her Mother, Pushpavalli and Father, Gemini Ganeshan.
Source: Vogue Arabia & Amarujala
The most valuable advice she received was to embrace her passions, to pursue what she treasured, rather than merely preach. Her mother, a paragon of virtue, exemplified this ethos by practising what she preached, setting an unwavering benchmark for Rekha to follow. Rekha credits her mother for instilling in her a profound appreciation for authenticity and the extraordinary in the ordinary. Immersed in a sensory world of Sufi music, Urdu poetry, Chettinad art, and South Indian culture, Rekha imbibed her mother’s reverence for all things sacred, avoiding synthetics and plastics. Her adoration for aesthetics remains unwavering.
The Legacy
Once a child starlet in the domain of Telugu cinema, Rekha’s destiny seized an exhilarating turn as she embellished the silver screen with her breakthrough role in “Sawan Bhadon.” The year was 1970, and the world of Bollywood stood to witness the rise of a diva, captivating hearts with her desirable and alluring on-screen portrayals.
Poster of Sawan Bhadon with Rekha as the leading lady.
Source: Pinterest
Yet, beneath the flamboyance and glamour, Rekha’s authentic prowess shone as she embraced versatility, fearlessly diving into a kaleidoscope of roles. From the heartfelt drama of “Ghar” to the enchanting charm of “Khoobsurat” and the poignant brilliance of “Umrao Jaan,” she bewitched audiences, winning accolades, and the esteemed National Film Award for Best Actress.
Rekha in Umrao Jaan. Source: Pinterest
In the 1980s, a transition unfolded. The fancies of glamour withered, by a profound pursuit of meaning in her craft. Dauntlessly challenging societal norms and stereotypes, Rekha transformed into a remarkable performer. Her roles in “Silsila,” “Ijaazat,” and “Khoon Bhari Maang” showcased an actress of depth, gracefully navigating the complexities of her characters.
With each role, Rekha proved that her allure extended far beyond the surface.
Rekha in Silsila. Source: Pinterest
Her absence from Cinema
Embracing a life of solitude since 2014, Rekha finds contentment as a “joyful and fulfilled recluse.” She has relinquished the spotlight, reserving her public appearances for moments when her instincts guide her. She awaits a calling that connects with her on a deeper level, awakening her craft and pursuit towards a new tale. She holds dear her freedom to choose what she loves and the luxury to gracefully decline. This conscious selection keeps her soul awakened.
Rekha For vogue
In an unexpected move, Rekha graces the cover of Vogue Arabia, her first-ever appearance in the prestigious magazine. It is a rare glimpse into her world, as she had chosen to abstain from interviews for over two decades.
Vintage brocade jacket, Mughal-inspired headgear embroidered with gold zari, jewellery,
Muslim Angarkha Anarkali, churidar, jewellery, Manish Malhotra. Photo: Tarun Khiwal (Source: Vogue Arabia)
Her acute knowledge of camerawork, lighting, and editing added another layer of brilliance to the production. Assisting her in bringing her sartorial vision to life was the esteemed Manish Malhotra, a top designer in India, who spared no effort in meticulously crafting her dreams into reality. His unwavering commitment and patient collaboration made him a cherished ally in this creative journey, akin to a wise and patient pujari.
Vintage Kanjivaram sari, silk blouse, Rehka’s own; Maharaja jewellery set, Van Cleef & Arpels.
Silk kurta set with an antique gold zardozi dupatta, shoes, jewellery, Manish Malhotra. Photo: Tarun Khiwal, (Source: Vogue Arabia)
Rekha’s Vogue cover serves as a testament to her selective involvement and her ability to personify her artistic vision. It is a moment where the veil is lifted, allowing admirers to catch a fleeting glimpse of her world, steeped in artistic expression and the pursuit of perfection.
Jacket, trousers, shirt, cravat, top hat, neck pin, shoes, Manish Malhotra; earrings, rings, Rekha’s own. Cape, headgear, cuffs, Incognid’or; earrings, Rekha’s own; necklace, Schiaparelli; rings, Manish Malhotra.
Photo: Tarun Khiwal, (Source: Vogue Arabia)
The Life She Cherishes
Today her home in Mumbai, Pushpavalli quoted after her mother who existed as a significant entity in Rekha’s expedition through life, pays homage to her upbringing and values. A commendation to her childhood home is her new sanctuary adorned with antiques, rare art and books, and vintage textiles. She treasures the profound values sowed by her lineage and culture making every mundane chore, like cleaning her home, becomes a sacred act of seva.Â
Gown, velvet Peshwa hat, custom velvet shoes, earrings, bangles, rings, Manish Malhotra. Jacket, Farsi skirt, shirt, headpiece, necklaces, cuffs, rings, Manish Malhotra; cufflinks, Swarovski; shoes, earrings, Schiaparelli. Photo: Tarun Khiwal, Photo: Tarun Khiwal, (Source: Vogue Arabia)
Rekha’s affair with films is like an integrating relationship of love carried amongst humans. She compares her craft to a deep form of belonging by dwelling upon the philosophy of love. The act of loving once committed, does not fade in an instant. Once the connection is established, it’s a form of relationship a person carries for eternity, A piece of existence that is painful yet soothing, and so Rekha talks of her craft. The Journey of stardom and the narratives she’s graced are a beautiful memory. The craft she’s worshipped and adorned like a crown is a piece of her. She awaits her calling and until then cherishes and reminisces on her memories.Â
Muslim Angarkha Anarkali, churidar, jewellery, Manish Malhotra. Vintage brocade jacket, Mughal-inspired headgear embroidered with gold zari, jewellery, Manish Malhotra. Photo: Tarun Khiwal, (Source: Vogue Arabia)
Rekha imparts her wisdom, revealing that the refinement of one’s mind transcends mere worldly encounters. While youthful explorations hold allure, she now seeks profound depth in her lived experiences. She yearns to uncover wisdom in the delicate unfurling of a sun-kissed flower and the enchantment of her garden’s revival during an unexpected rain shower. This commitment to life’s enchantment extends to her relationships, career, and inner self, igniting a magical tapestry woven by her existence.
