Rajesh Khanna’s stardom skyrocketed in 1969 with Aradhana, the highest-grossing film of the year, in which he starred alongside Sharmila Tagore.
Bollywood’s first-ever superstar is none other than Rajesh Khana. Fondly called Kaka, Khanna spread his magic over the men and women of the country. It won’t be unfair to say that Khanna’s stardom was unparalleled, and he was indeed one of the biggest box-office stars of his time. Though the actor gave several super hit films, the year 1971 was a very special and important career in his life, which also proved to be a turning point in his career.
Kaka made his Hindi film debut in 1966 with Aakhri Raat, followed by three releases in 1969. Notably, he had no film releases in 1968. However, his stardom skyrocketed in 1969 with Aradhana, the highest-grossing film of the year, in which he starred alongside Sharmila Tagore.
In the year 1971, Rajesh gave 10 hit films in just a year! Making it a record which is hard to break in today’s era. Out of these 10 movies, he also played a cameo in Guddi and an extended role in Badnaam Farishte. Out of the 8 films, 5 of Kaka’s movies were a blockbuster hit. The movie entered the list of the highest grossers of the year 1971.
Take a look at the top 10 highest-grossing movies of 1971
- Haathi Mere Saathi: 3.5 crore*
- Mera Gaon Mera Desh: 3 crore
- Maryada: 2.25 crore*
- Andaz: 2 crore*
- Kati Patang: 1.9 crore*
- Caravan: 1.80 crore
- Hare Rama Hare Krishna: 1.70 crore
- Sharmilee: 1.30 crore
- Mela: 1.20 crore
- Mehboob Ki Mehndi: 0.90 crore*
The given box office figures were taken from different sources.
Do you know that the five films of Kakacollectively owned 51 per cent of the cumulative collection of the top 10 films. Rajesh Khanna was widely loved by fans. The legendary actor took his last breath on July 18, 2012. Even after these years, people across the nation regard him as one of the superstars Bollywood has ever witnessed.
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