Rajesh Khanna, Bollywood’s original superstar, lived a life of extraordinary fame, yet his final days painted a picture of profound solitude, a stark contrast to his public image. Beyond the adulation and cinematic triumphs, a touching and somewhat melancholic discovery after his passing revealed a hidden facet of his private world.
The Unopened Treasures of Aashirwaad: What Was Inside?
Following his demise in 2012, his iconic Mumbai bungalow, Aashirwaad, yielded a surprising secret: 64 unopened suitcases. These weren’t filled with wealth or long-lost scripts, but rather with an array of gifts. Collected meticulously during his numerous travels abroad, these presents were intended for friends and acquaintances, yet they remained undelivered, scattered throughout his home.
Gautam Chintamani’s biography, “Dark Star: The Loneliness of Being Rajesh Khanna,” sheds light on this poignant detail, portraying a man who, despite his regal lifestyle and immense popularity, grappled with a deep sense of loneliness.
Family Ties and a Complex Marriage: Dimple Kapadia’s Enduring Bond
Rajesh Khanna’s personal life, particularly his marriage to Dimple Kapadia, was famously intricate. They tied the knot in 1973, just before the release of Dimple’s debut film, “Bobby”. However, their relationship soon faced strain due to Khanna’s dominating personality, mood swings, and his struggles with fame and lonel
iness. While they separated in the 1980s, a legal divorce never materialized.
Despite their separation, Dimple Kapadia remained a significant presence in his life, particularly during his final illness. Her unwavering care during his last days highlighted an enduring emotional bond, transcending their distant relationship. Khanna also maintained a connection with his daughters, Twinkle and Rinke Khanna, even though he initially harbored reservations about Dimple working after their marriage. He even entertained the idea of producing a film for Twinkle, showcasing his paternal affection.
The Unfulfilled Dream: Aashirwaad’s Last Wish
Among the poignant revelations from his last days was an unfulfilled wish: Rajesh Khanna dreamt of transforming his beloved bungalow, Aashirwaad, into a museum. Despite a lucrative offer of Rs 150 crore, he staunchly refused to sell the property, determined to preserve its legacy. Tragically, this dream remained unrealized. After his death, the iconic bungalow was demolished, marking the end of an era and leaving his final wish unfulfilled.
