Famous filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra, who gave Bollywood iconic movies like Parinda, 1942: A Love Story and 3 Idiots, once recalled an interesting incident from his early days in the industry. In a throwback conversation, he shared how superstar Amitabh Bachchan requested him for a favour — to bring Rekha along for a private film screening.
Meeting Amitabh Bachchan And Rekha For The First Time
Chopra revealed that he first met Amitabh Bachchan on the sets of the 1977 film Alaap, directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee. The film also featured Rekha, who was already one of the most talked-about actresses of that time. Chopra, who was then a struggling filmmaker, had arranged a special screening of his film and informed everyone that the venue was booked only till 5 p.m.
Amitabh Bachchan’s Special Request
During the shoot, a heated argument broke out, and Chopra thought no one was interested in watching his film anymore. But suddenly, Amitabh Bachchan came up to him, placed a hand on his shoulder, and asked if he could bring a “friend” for the screening. That friend turned out to be none other than Rekha.
This small incident not only showed Amitabh’s closeness with Rekha at that time but also highlighted how their companionship was no secret among people in the industry.
Amitabh Bachchan And Rekha’s Controversial Equation
The relationship between Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha has always been one of Bollywood’s biggest mysteries. Their chemistry in films like Muqaddar Ka Sikandar, Silsila, and Mr Natwarlal made headlines, but their off-screen bond drew even more attention. Since Amitabh was already married to Jaya Bachchan, Rekha was often labelled as the “other woman.”
In one old interview, Rekha herself admitted that Amitabh was old-fashioned and would never want to hurt his wife, Jaya. Still, their closeness and the way media portrayed their relationship made it one of the most controversial love stories in Indian cinema.
Why Amitabh Stopped Working With Rekha
With time, Amitabh Bachchan distanced himself from Rekha on-screen as well. Reports suggested that Jaya Bachchan was deeply hurt by their growing closeness, which made the situation sensitive for the Bachchan family. After that, Amitabh and Rekha’s pairing on screen became rare, and the two maintained silence in public about their bond.
The Impact On Bollywood And Society
This incident shared by Vidhu Vinod Chopra once again brings the spotlight on how Bollywood relationships are not just about love or friendship but also about public image, family values, and societal expectations. In the 1970s and 1980s, media had already started sensationalizing celebrity affairs, and the Bachchan-Rekha chapter became one of the most discussed topics.
Conclusion
Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s revelation about Amitabh Bachchan wanting to bring Rekha to a screening is a reminder of how their relationship was always an open secret in Bollywood. While neither Amitabh nor Rekha ever confirmed their affair publicly, their chemistry and such behind-the-scenes stories kept the rumours alive. Even today, decades later, people remain fascinated by the Amitabh-Rekha-Jaya triangle, which continues to be one of the most dramatic tales in Indian cinema history.
FAQs
Who is Vidhu Vinod Chopra?
Vidhu Vinod Chopra is a veteran filmmaker and producer known for movies like Parinda, Mission Kashmir, 3 Idiots, and Munna Bhai MBBS.
Did Amitabh Bachchan ever accept his relationship with Rekha?
No, Amitabh Bachchan has always denied having any affair with Rekha, though rumours and media reports suggested otherwise.
How did Jaya Bachchan react to Rekha and Amitabh’s closeness?
According to old interviews, Jaya Bachchan was deeply emotional about it. Rekha once shared that Jaya had tears in her eyes while watching her romantic scenes with Amitabh in Muqaddar Ka Sikandar.
Why did Amitabh stop working with Rekha?
Reports say that to protect his marriage and family life, Amitabh slowly distanced himself from Rekha on-screen and off-screen.
Why is their story still discussed today?
The Amitabh-Rekha saga is one of Bollywood’s most famous and controversial love stories. Even after decades, it remains a subject of curiosity and fascination for movie lovers.