Widely celebrated as Hindi cinema's first true superstar, Rajesh Khanna redefined fame in the late 1960s and early 1970s. His popularity was so extraordinary that the word 'superstar' became almost synonymous with his identity. However, the story behind how he came to be known by that title has an interesting backstory, recently revisited in a resurfaced video featuring publicity agent Tarak Nath Gandhi.
The PR Strategy Behind the Title
Recalling the strategy, Gandhi shared, 'After every news piece we sent, alongside it we would write 'superstar Rajesh Khanna'. Many journalists took offense. They would ask, 'Why should we write superstar Rajesh Khanna?' We had to convince them. Sometimes we talked to them lovingly, sometimes we explained, sometimes we took them to dinner, sometimes we gave gifts…' He further explained, 'When something is established again and again, when it is said repeatedly, then that thing turns out to be true.'
Fan Reactions to the Resurfaced Clip
The clip, which resurfaced on Reddit, sparked a wave of reactions from users. Many acknowledged that while the title may have been promoted, Khanna's work ultimately justified it. One person wrote, 'Dude, he had a huge stardom irrespective.' Another comment read, 'And they made sure he had the title that he deserved.' Someone added, 'Exactly, Rajesh Khanna gave 17 back-to-back blockbusters within the span of two years; he deserved the title of superstar.' Someone else wrote, 'Of course they curate their image, but it's far-fetched to think that's the only reason he got that tag. Delivered crazy success to back it up.'
Khanna's Rise to Stardom
Khanna's journey began after he won the United Producers Talent Contest in 1965, which paved his way into films. However, it was 1969 that truly transformed his career. The release of Aradhana, opposite Sharmila Tagore, catapulted him to overnight stardom. Songs like Mere Sapno Ki Rani and Roop Tera Mastana became timeless classics.
Unmatched Success Streak
What followed was a historic run of success. Between 1969 and 1971, Khanna delivered an unmatched streak of 17 consecutive hits. Films such as Do Raaste, Kati Patang, Safar, Anand, Amar Prem, and Haathi Mere Saathi cemented his dominance at the box office.
Unprecedented Fan Following
His fan following reached a level rarely seen before or since. Stories of admirers writing him letters in blood, kissing his car, and leaving lipstick marks became part of Bollywood folklore. Public appearances often turned chaotic, with massive crowds gathering just to catch a glimpse of 'Kaka,' as he was fondly called. At film premieres, fans would throw coins, scream uncontrollably, and wait for hours to see him.
Legacy of a Superstar
Even as generations of stars followed, Rajesh Khanna's peak remains unparalleled in terms of sheer hysteria and the deep emotional bond he shared with his audience. His title of 'superstar' was not just a marketing gimmick; it was a reflection of a phenomenon that captivated an entire nation.
