Personal Details of Rekha
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Bhanurekha Ganesan |
| Stage Name | Rekha |
| Date of Birth | October 10, 1954 |
| Age | 70 years (as of 2024) |
| Birthplace | Madras, Madras State, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Profession | Actress |
| Years Active | 1958–present |
| Marital Status | Widowed (Mukesh Agarwal, 1990–1991) |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) |
| Weight | 60 kg (132 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Zodiac Sign | Libra |
Early Life and Background
Rekha, born as Bhanurekha Ganesan on October 10, 1954, in Madras (now Chennai), India, is the daughter of renowned Tamil actor Gemini Ganesan and Telugu actress Pushpavalli. Despite her parents’ prominence in the film industry, Rekha’s upbringing was marked by challenges. Her father did not acknowledge paternity during her childhood, leading to financial and emotional hardships. She has a sister, Radha, and several half-siblings from her father’s other relationships.
Entry into Cinema
Rekha’s foray into acting began at a young age due to financial constraints. She made her debut as a child artist in the Telugu film Inti Guttu (1958) and Rangula Ratnam (1966). Her first lead role was in the Kannada film Operation Jackpot Nalli C.I.D 999 (1969). She gained prominence in Hindi cinema with her debut in Sawan Bhadon (1970), which was a commercial success and established her as a rising star.
Transformation and Rise to Stardom
Initially criticized for her looks and lack of fluency in Hindi, Rekha underwent a significant transformation. She worked diligently to improve her appearance, acting skills, and command of the Hindi language. This dedication led to critically acclaimed performances in films like Ghar (1978) and Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978), marking the beginning of her successful career in Bollywood.
Filmography
Rekha’s illustrious career spans over six decades, during which she has appeared in more than 180 films. Below is a selection of notable films from her extensive filmography:
| Year | Film Name | Character | Remarks |
| 1970 | Sawan Bhadon | Chanda | Hindi debut |
| 1976 | Nagin | Rajjo | Commercial success |
| 1978 | Ghar | Aarti | Critically acclaimed |
| 1978 | Muqaddar Ka Sikandar | Zohra Bai | Box office hit |
| 1980 | Khubsoorat | Manju Dayal | Won Filmfare Award for Best Actress |
| 1981 | Umrao Jaan | Umrao Jaan | Won National Film Award for Best Actress |
| 1981 | Silsila | Chandni | Notable performance |
| 1988 | Khoon Bhari Maang | Aarti Verma | Won Filmfare Award for Best Actress |
| 1996 | Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi | Madam Maya | Won Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress |
| 2001 | Lajja | Ramdulaari | Critically acclaimed |
| 2003 | Koi… Mil Gaya | Sonia Mehra | Popular film |
| 2006 | Krrish | Sonia Mehra | Sequel to Koi… Mil Gaya |
| 2014 | Super Nani | Bharti Bhatia | Lead role |
Accolades and Honors
Rekha’s contribution to Indian cinema has been recognized with numerous awards and honors:
- National Film Awards: Won Best Actress for Umrao Jaan (1981).
- Filmfare Awards: Three wins, including Best Actress for Khubsoorat (1980) and Khoon Bhari Maang (1988), and Best Supporting Actress for Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi (1996).
- Padma Shri: Awarded India’s fourth-highest civilian honor in 2010 for her contributions to the arts.
Personal Life
Rekha’s personal life has been a subject of media attention. She married industrialist Mukesh Agarwal in 1990, who tragically committed suicide in 1991. Rekha has since remained private about her personal affairs. Her relationships with co-stars, particularly Amitabh Bachchan, have been widely speculated but never confirmed.
Physical Attributes
Rekha stands at a height of 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) and maintains a weight of approximately 60 kg (132 lbs). Her expressive brown eyes and lustrous black hair have been iconic features throughout her career.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Rekha’s estimated net worth is around $40 million. Her wealth primarily stems from her acting career, brand endorsements, and investments in real estate.
Legacy and Influence
Rekha’s journey from a debutante facing criticism to an iconic figure in Indian cinema is a testament to her resilience and talent. She has been an inspiration to many aspiring actors and continues to be revered for her versatility and dedication to the craft. Her performances, particularly in films like Umrao Jaan, have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
Recent Activities
While Rekha has reduced her on-screen appearances in recent years, she remains active in the film industry. She attends award functions, participates in film festivals, and is involved in various charitable activities. Her timeless beauty and grace continue to captivate audiences, making her a beloved figure in Indian cinema.
Conclusion
Rekha’s illustrious career, marked by stellar performances and numerous accolades, has solidified her status as one of the most iconic actresses in Indian cinema. Her journey reflects her unwavering commitment to her craft and her ability to reinvent herself, ensuring her legacy endures for generations to come.
