When discussing the age of Rekha actress, one thing becomes abundantly clear: age is merely a number for India’s most enigmatic and ageless beauty. Born Bhanurekha Ganesan on October 10, 1954, Rekha is currently 71 years old, yet she continues to mesmerize audiences with her timeless elegance and stunning presence. This legendary actress has dominated Hindi cinema for over five decades, earning recognition as one of the finest performers in Indian film history.
Table of Contents
Age of Rekha Actress at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Bhanurekha Ganesan |
| Date of Birth | October 10, 1954 |
| Age | 71 years (as of 2025) |
| Height | 5’6″ (168 cm) |
| Parents | Gemini Ganesan (Father), Pushpavalli (Mother) |
| Debut Film | Rangula Ratnam (1966, Telugu) |
| Bollywood Debut | Sawan Bhadon (1970) |
| Total Films | Over 180 films |
| Awards | National Film Award, 3 Filmfare Awards, Padma Shri (2010) |
| Marital Status | Widow (married Mukesh Aggarwal, 1990-1991) |
The Remarkable Journey: From Child Artist to Icon
Early Struggles and Transformation
The daughter of legendary actors Pushpavalli and Gemini Ganesan, Rekha started her career as a child actress in Telugu films Inti Guttu (1958) and Rangula Ratnam (1966). At just 13 years old, she entered the film industry to support her family financially. Her early years were challenging, as she faced criticism for her acting abilities and appearance. However, through sheer determination and hard work, she transformed herself into the mesmerizing star we know today.
The Bollywood Breakthrough
Her Hindi debut Sawan Bhadon (1970) established her as a rising star, though it wasn’t until the mid-1970s that she truly came into her own. Working with dedication to perfect her Hindi and craft, Rekha evolved from an awkward newcomer into a sophisticated, versatile performer who could command any role with grace and power.
Iconic Films That Defined the Age of Rekha Actress
Umrao Jaan (1981) – The Masterpiece
Her portrayal of a classical courtesan in Umrao Jaan won her the National Film Award for Best Actress. This film showcased her ability to embody grace, vulnerability, and strength, with her performance still considered one of Bollywood’s most iconic portrayals.
Khubsoorat (1980) – The Comedy Gem
For her performance in the comedy Khubsoorat, Rekha received her first Filmfare Award for Best Actress. Playing the vivacious Manju Dayal, she demonstrated her versatility by delivering a delightful performance that balanced humor with heart.
Silsila (1981) – The Legendary Triangle
This Yash Chopra romantic drama featuring Rekha alongside Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan became one of Bollywood’s most talked-about films. Her role as Chandni showcased her ability to portray complex emotions with nuance and dignity.
Khoon Bhari Maang (1988) – The Fierce Comeback
She was among the actresses who led a new trend of women-centred revenge films, starting with Khoon Bhari Maang (1988), for which she won a second Best Actress award at Filmfare. Playing a dual role as a wealthy widow seeking vengeance, Rekha proved she could carry an entire film on her shoulders.
Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi (1996) – Against Type
In 1996, she played against type in the role of an underworld don in the action thriller Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi, for which she won a third Filmfare Award in the Best Supporting Actress category. This bold choice demonstrated her willingness to experiment and take risks.
Modern Era Success
During the 2000s, she was praised for her supporting roles in the 2001 dramas Zubeidaa and Lajja, and started playing mother roles, among which was her role in the science fiction Koi… Mil Gaya (2003) and its superhero sequel Krrish (2006), both commercial successes. The lattermost emerged as her highest-grossing release.
The Secret to Rekha’s Ageless Beauty
Despite the advancing age of Rekha actress, she remains Bollywood’s most stunning diva. Her beauty secrets include:
- Daily Yoga Practice: She credits yoga for maintaining her flexibility and youthful appearance
- Balanced Diet: As a vegetarian, she follows a healthy, nutritious eating plan
- Disciplined Lifestyle: Regular exercise and wellness routines keep her energized
- Inner Peace: Her spiritual practices and meditation contribute to her inner glow
- Self-Styling: Unlike other stars, Rekha has never used a fashion stylist, picking her own clothes and hairstyles since day one
Political Career and Honors
In 2010, the Government of India honoured her with Padma Shri, India’s fourth highest civilian honour. Apart from acting, Rekha served as a Member of Parliament for the Rajya Sabha from 2012 to 2018. She was nominated alongside cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, recognizing her immense contribution to Indian cinema and culture.
Personal Life and Privacy
Rekha married Delhi-based industrialist Mukesh Aggarwal in 1990, but the marriage ended tragically when he died by suicide in 1991, leaving her a widow. She has never remarried and now lives in her self-owned bungalow in Bandra (West), Mumbai, with her secretary Farzana and pets. Known for being intensely private, Rekha rarely gives interviews and mostly avoids parties and events, adding to her mystique.
How to Watch Rekha’s Iconic Films
OTT Streaming Platforms:
- Netflix: Umrao Jaan, Khoon Bhari Maang (availability varies by region)
- Amazon Prime Video: Silsila, Koi… Mil Gaya, Krrish
- YouTube: Several classic Rekha films available on official channels like Shemaroo
- ZEE5: Classic Bollywood collection featuring Rekha’s memorable performances
DVD/Blu-ray Collections: Many of Rekha’s iconic films are available as collector’s editions on platforms like Amazon India and Flipkart.
For more Bollywood legends and classic cinema content, visit Technosports’ entertainment section for comprehensive coverage of vintage Bollywood, actress profiles, and timeless movie recommendations.
FAQs
Q: What is the current age of Rekha actress and when was she born?
Rekha was born on October 10, 1954, making her 71 years old as of 2025. Despite her age, she remains one of Bollywood’s most stunning and elegant personalities, maintaining her ageless beauty through yoga, a balanced vegetarian diet, and a disciplined lifestyle. She continues to inspire generations with her timeless grace and dignified presence.
Q: How did Rekha transform from an awkward newcomer to Bollywood’s most elegant actress?
Rekha’s transformation is one of Bollywood’s most remarkable success stories. Starting as a child actress in Telugu films in 1966, she faced criticism during her early Bollywood years for her appearance and acting. Through intense dedication, she worked on perfecting her Hindi language skills, refined her acting craft, developed her unique fashion sense, and adopted a healthy lifestyle.
