When Rekha admitted being in love with Amitabh Bachchan: ‘Why should I be singled out?’

Rekha’s old comments about Amitabh Bachchan have returned to attention after a resurfaced interview reminded fans of one of Bollywood’s most discussed relationships. In a 2004 episode of Simi Garewal’s talk show ‘Rendezvous’, Rekha spoke about her feelings for Amitabh. She admitted she loved him, but also denied ever having a personal relationship with him. Their rumored bond has remained part of Hindi film history for decades, especially after their last film together, ‘Silsila’.

Rekha on loving Amitabh Bachchan

Rekha made the comments during her appearance on Simi Garewal’s ‘Rendezvous’ in 2004. When Simi asked if she was ever in love with Amitabh Bachchan, Rekha did not avoid the question.She replied, “Absolutely. Duh, that’s a dumb question. I have yet to come across a single man, woman, child who can help but fall completely, passionately, insanely, desperately, hopelessly in love with him. So why should I be singled out?”Rekha then added, “What do I deny? I’m not in love with him? Of course I am. Duniya bhar ka love (the whole world’s love) aap le lijiyega (you can take it) and add some more, I feel that for that person. Bottom line.”Her comments became one of the most quoted moments from the interview. Rekha’s words also stood out because she spoke with unusual directness about a subject that had long drawn public attention.

Rekha denied a personal relationship

In the same interview, Rekha also addressed the rumors around her and Amitabh. She said there was no personal relationship between them and denied the long-running speculation.Rekha said, “There was never a personal connection with him; that’s the truth. Never ever. There was no truth to the controversies and speculation.”Rekha and Amitabh worked together in several films and became one of Hindi cinema’s most talked-about screen pairs. Their last film together was Yash Chopra’s 1981 drama ‘Silsila’. The film also starred Jaya Bachchan and drew attention because its story was seen by many as close to the public gossip around the three stars.After ‘Silsila’, Rekha and Amitabh did not appear together in another film. Their association, however, continued to interest fans because of their screen chemistry, Rekha’s candid comments and years of speculation around their equation.