Rajesh Khanna
By Patrick Frater
Thu, 19 July 2012, 13:24 PM (HKT)
Rajesh KHANNA, the Indian actor who headlined a string of hit films in the 1970s and provoked hysterical reactions among his fans, died yesterday (18 July 2012) age 69.
He had been in hospital regularly of late and died at home in Bandra, Mumbai. Police had to close the street after large crowds gathered.
An adopted child who took an early interest in theatre, Khanna starred in hits including Kati Patang, Aaradhana, Anand and Amar Prem. Fans at the time were reported as covering his car with lipstick, while others 'married' his photographs.
Despite such adulation for his romantic persona, 'Kaka' experimented with negative roles, social dramas and political films – in later life he became a member of parliament and also a film producer.
Amitabh Bachchan, Khanna's latter day equivalent, reported that Khanna's last words were "time's up, pack up."
Aside from the sheer superstardom, Khanna, may be remembered for his 32 film collaboration with composer Rahul Dev Burman and playback singer Kishore Kumar.
He is survived by wife and former actress Dimple KAPADIA and daughters Rinke Khanna and Twinkle KHANNA, now married to action star Akshay KUMAR.
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