FridayOL

Rekha, a name synonymous with Bollywood glamour, has shared screen space with many legends. But before Amitabh Bachchan dominated the silver screen, there was another actor who reigned supreme, becoming Rekha's first leading man and briefly eclipsing even the 'Shahenshah' himself. This is the story of Vinod Khanna, a star whose meteoric rise was tragically cut short by a series of unfortunate events, including a mysterious disappearance and a stint in jail.

Vinod Khanna burst onto the scene in the 1970s, quickly establishing himself as a heartthrob with his striking looks, intense gaze, and undeniable charisma. His pairing with Rekha in films like *Elaan* (1971) and subsequently *Shehzada* (1972) proved to be a winning formula. These films catapulted him to stardom, making him a household name. At that time, Khanna was arguably more popular than Amitabh Bachchan, who was still finding his footing in the industry. Dharmendra, another major star, also felt the heat of Khanna's rising popularity.

Khanna's career trajectory was nothing short of phenomenal. He delivered a string of hits, showcasing his versatility in both romantic and action roles. Films like *Mere Jeevan Saathi*, *Ankhiyon Se Kehti Hoon*, *Lekin*, *Amar Deep*, and *Paras* solidified his position as a top-tier actor. His popularity was undeniable; fans would queue up for hours just to catch a glimpse of him, and he was known for his generosity, often taking the time to interact with his admirers. The sheer volume of fan mail he received was reportedly staggering, filling entire rooms.

However, Khanna's life took an unexpected turn in 1982. He abruptly vanished from the public eye, leaving behind his family and career. Rumors swirled, with some suggesting he was involved in illegal activities. The truth, however, was far more complex. Khanna had become disillusioned with the glitz and glamour of Bollywood and embarked on a spiritual journey, joining the Kriya Yoga movement and becoming a dedicated follower of his guru, Bhagwan Rajneesh. He spent several years living in a commune in Oregon, USA, with Rajneesh's followers. This period of his life remains shrouded in mystery and has fueled countless speculations.

After several years, Khanna returned to India and eventually resumed his acting career in the late 1980s. While he continued to work in films, his comeback wasn't as triumphant as many had hoped. He appeared in supporting roles in films like *Parinda*, *Soldier*, and *Luck by Chance*, showcasing his acting prowess but never quite regaining his former superstardom. Despite this, his performances were consistently praised, and he remained a respected figure in the industry. His portrayal of Dabur Chief Rahul Verma in the television series *Just Mohabbat* (1997) also garnered him widespread recognition.

Vinod Khanna passed away in April 2017 after battling a prolonged illness. His death marked the end of an era and left a void in the Indian film industry. He was a true icon, a star whose talent, charisma, and enigmatic personality captivated audiences for decades. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of fame and the complexities of life, spirituality, and the pursuit of happiness. The tale of Vinod Khanna is a fascinating chapter in Bollywood's history, a story of immense success, a mysterious disappearance, and a return to grace.