Discover the intense rivalry between Bollywood stars Rishi Kapoor and Rajesh Khanna, sparked by love, a lost role, and a thrown ring.
Bollywood, the Indian film industry, has seen its share of friendships and rivalries among its stars. But the feud between Rishi Kapoor and Rajesh Khanna has gained legendary status, notably for its personal undertones. The relationship between these two stars reached a point of serious enmity, fueled by events that left scars on both sides.
The Roots of Enmity Between Rishi Kapoor and Rajesh Khanna
Rivalry in Bollywood is not uncommon, but the feud between Rishi Kapoor and Rajesh Khanna was particularly intense. The details were laid bare by Rishi Kapoor in his autobiography, "Khullam Khulla." According to the book, Kapoor admitted to disliking Rajesh Khanna to such an extent that he took steps to get revenge on him. This feud had a significant emotional toll on Khanna.
The Role That Got Away: Satyam Shivam Sundaram
Rajesh Khanna was a huge admirer of the legendary Raj Kapoor, who was Rishi Kapoor's father, and he had a desire to work with him. When Raj Kapoor began planning his film "Satyam Shivam Sundaram," he initially offered the role to Rajesh Khanna. However, Rishi Kapoor took umbrage and rallied the family to oppose the casting choice. Succumbing to the pressure, Raj Kapoor eventually gave the role to Shashi Kapoor instead, sidelining Rajesh Khanna.
The Tale of the Ring and The Lost Love
The enmity between Rishi Kapoor and Rajesh Khanna became personal because of Dimple Kapadia, who was at the center of the rivalry. During the shooting of "Bobby," Rishi Kapoor developed a liking for Dimple Kapadia, his co-star. He even gifted her a ring, which she started wearing. However, Rajesh Khanna and Dimple Kapadia later became romantically involved, leading to their marriage.
In a move that deeply hurt Rishi Kapoor, Rajesh Khanna took exception to Dimple wearing the ring from Rishi and threw it into the sea. This act angered Kapoor and added fuel to the fire of their ongoing feud.
The Lasting Impact of The Feud
Although time heals all wounds, this particular rivalry seemed to have a long-lasting effect, particularly on Rajesh Khanna, who was said to be heartbroken over the incidents. Rishi Kapoor took years to recover from the emotional impact of losing Dimple Kapadia.
The Bollywood industry has seen its share of controversies and feuds, but the Rishi Kapoor-Rajesh Khanna enmity remains one of the most talked-about, illustrating the complexities of personal relationships in the world of glamour and fame.