When Rajesh Khanna Spoke About Amitabh Bachchan's Stardom: 'I Would Envy Him'

In a memorable throwback interview, the late actor Rajesh Khanna addressed the popular notion that had he remained active in the film industry, Amitabh Bachchan might never have risen to superstardom.

Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan worked together in 'Anand.'

Source : IMDb

In a memorable throwback interview, the late actor Rajesh Khanna addressed the popular notion that had he remained active in the film industry, Amitabh Bachchan might never have risen to superstardom. This statement, often debated among fans and critics, surfaced during a conversation about the trajectories of Bollywood’s iconic stars.

Rajesh Khanna on Amitabh Bachchan's stardom

Rajesh Khanna, who collaborated with Amitabh Bachchan in the classic film 'Anand', shared his thoughts with Lehren, emphasizing the role of fate. Reflecting on Amitabh’s journey from their collaboration in 'Anand' to his superstardom, Khanna extended his heartfelt congratulations to Big B.

"Khair jo jiski kismat hai aur jo jiska kaam hai, ye toh upar wale ki marzi hoti hai. Main toh ye kehna chaahunga jab unhone mere saath ‘Anand’ mein kaam shuru kiya aur aaj iss mukaam par pahuche, main bahut hi unko mubarakbaad dunga. I’ll be happy for him and I’ll envy him ki iss mukaam par pahuchna ye kamiyaabi haasil karna bahut hi garv ki baat hai, sirf unke liye hi nahi par industry ke liye bhi, humare liye bhi aur janta ke liye bhi (“I would envy him because achieving this status and success is truly a matter of pride, not just for him but for the entire industry, for us, and for the public as well),” Khanna remarked.

 

Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan in 'Anand'

The two actors worked closely on 'Anand', a film that remains a milestone in Indian cinema. Celebrated for its poignant storytelling and powerful performances, the movie was a turning point for both actors. While Khanna was already an established superstar, Bachchan was on the brink of his stardom, and their collaboration significantly amplified his rise.

When asked whether Amitabh Bachchan worked with him or learned from him during the making of 'Anand', Khanna provided a philosophical take on the nature of work. “One does not learn work from anyone. Work is something that is done. Work is neither small nor big; it is either good or bad,” he said.