In a throwback interview, Rekha discussed why she and Amitabh Bachchan chose not to collaborate again after their iconic film Silsila.
Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha’s rumoured relationship was one of the biggest scandalous affairs in Bollywood’s history. Their affair began on the sets of the film Do Anjaane. Big B was already married at that time with Jaya Bachchan, still it was said that Rekha was head-over-heels in love with the actor.
During their link-up rumours, the celebrated director Yash Chopra offered them Silsila. The film literally revolves around the on-screen portrayal of their off-screen love triangle. Silsila was the last film in which Amitabh and Rekha worked together. In a candid 2006 interview with Filmfare, Rekha opened up about the reasons behind her and Big B decision not to work together after their iconic film Silsila.
Rekha Talks About Her Last Collaboration With Amitabh Bachchan
Rekha expressed that after the long break, she felt a personal sense of loss for not being part of Amitabh Bachchan’s incredible journey as an actor. She remarked, “My loss is that I didn’t get a chance to share the phenomenal growth of Amit ji as an actor.”
Moreover, she also shared the reason about not working with Mr Bachchan post-Silsila and said, “The only rational answer that I can think of is that the wait to be able to co-star with Amitji is worth it. That everything happens for the right reason at the right time.” She explained that it wasn’t the passage of time that mattered, but rather the filmmakers’ judgement, as they had to find a project that matched their combined talent. “I truly believe that sabr ka phal meetha hota hai. In this case, time is not of the essence. That I know for sure.”
It was reported that Jaya Bachchan wasn’t agreeing to work in Silsila. Yash Chopra found it difficult to bring Amitabh, Jaya, and Rekha together, as she was against the idea of her husband working with Rekha. But it was the climax scene in Silsila that made Jaya Bachchan say ‘yes’. Although the film dealt with the bold subject of an extramarital affair, its climax was opposite. It depicted a ‘nuptial reunion’ where Amit Malhotra (Amitabh Bachchan) returns to his wife, Shobha Malhotra (Jaya Bachchan), ending his relationship with Chandni (Rekha).