Rekha's co-star reveals how she transformed into a 'white swan from ugly duckling', says she was an enigma

Time of India

4 days ago

Among the many highlights of Rekha's celebrated journey in cinema,
Khoon Bhari Maang
stands out as a defining moment. Her portrayal of Aarti, a resilient woman seeking vengeance against a deceitful ex-husband, remains one of the most compelling and intense depictions of female empowerment and wrath in Indian cinema. The film, directed by Rakesh Roshan, carved its place in Bollywood history not just for its gripping storyline but also for the powerful performances it showcased.
Kabir Bedi's Initial Doubts
Veteran actor Kabir Bedi, who played the primary antagonist in the film, recently looked back on his experience working on the project. At the time the film was offered to him, Kabir was deeply involved in international ventures, particularly in Hollywood, and was not inclined to return to Hindi films.
However, director Rakesh Roshan persisted. He believed Kabir's unique screen presence and ability to switch from a charming protagonist to a ruthless villain made him the ideal fit for the role. Interestingly, several top male stars had already turned down the character, unsure about playing such a dark figure.
Rekha's Presence Sealed the Deal
Kabir admitted that one of the deciding factors for him to accept the role was the opportunity to share screen space with Rekha. Her association with the film gave him confidence that the project had depth and promise. He recalled being drawn to Rekha's mystique and resilience—qualities that had defined her both on and off the screen.
Rekha: From Underdog to Icon
Reflecting on Rekha's evolution, Kabir expressed admiration for her determination. Early in her career, Rekha had faced harsh criticism for her appearance and was often dismissed by the industry due to her darker complexion and South Indian roots.
Yet, she worked tirelessly to transform herself and silence her critics. Over the years, she not only refined her acting skills but also reinvented her public persona. By the time Khoon Bhari Maang was in production, Rekha had already become one of the most admired and respected stars in the country.
Early Struggles and Triumphs
Rekha began acting in Telugu films as a child before transitioning to lead roles. Her first major appearance as a heroine came in the 1969 Kannada film Operation Jackpot Nalli CID 999. A year later, she debuted in Hindi cinema with Sawan Bhadon. However, she faced significant body shaming during her early years.
Box Office Success and Critical Acclaim
Khoon Bhari Maang went on to become a major commercial hit. Alongside Rekha and Kabir Bedi, the film featured strong performances by Sonu Walia, Shatrughan Sinha, and Kader Khan. Rekha's intense performance earned her the Filmfare Award for Best Actress, solidifying her position as one of the finest talents in Indian cinema.
The movie, was an unofficial adapation of the hit Australian mini-series, 'Return To Eden'.