Rekha’s 10 most iconic roles that defined her legacy in Indian cinema

Umrao Jaan (1981)
With one of the most stunning performances in Indian cinema is Rekha's role of the sophisticated courtesan-poet  named Umrao Jaan. She embodied grace even in heartbreak by bringing poise, pain, and poetry to the role. The veteran actress won a National Award for Best Actress for the stories of love and resiliency.

Utsav (1984)
The veteran actress played the role of Vasantsena, a charming courtesan who wins over the heart of an ordinary man, in this sensual role. She was able to confidently explore sensuality in the movie, while also giving the character a sense of empowerment and humanity. Rekha's performance changed how desire was shown on screen at the time.

Khubsoorat (1980) – Manju Dayal
Rekha's contagious warmth and energy glowed on the screen as the naughty, free-spirited Manju. She taught everyone, including the audience, that kindness and joy can transcend even the most rigid rules by bringing laughter and life into a strict household. It's among the actress’s most naturally endearing roles.

Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978) – Zohra Bai
Rekha played the role of a tragic dancer named Zohra Bai, who secretly loved a man she would never be able to have. The actress’s silent suffering and heartfelt performance took the movie beyond and above its dramatic plot. Rekha marked her reputation as an actress with a great deal of emotional depth in this role.

Parineeta (2005) – Naveen Kishore’s Aunt
Rekha made a brief but noteworthy cameo as a singer on the title track of this lovely period drama. The actress’s elegant and poised presence served as a constant reminder that genuine grace never ages. Even in a brief role, she embodied elegance.

Silsila (1981) – Chandni
Rekha's portrayal of forbidden love as Chandni was incredibly sensitive. This love triangle will never be forgotten because of her chemistry with Jaya and Amitabh Bachchan. The movie is still one of the most talked-about films in Bollywood history because every look and every silence in the movie showed layers of emotion.

Zubeidaa (2001) – Maharani Mandira Devi
Rekha's role of the compassionate yet regal Maharani where she left behind royalty in every picture with her elegant facial expression and bold speech. Viewers were reminded of her unparalleled mastery of subtlety by the solemn, respectful performance.

Khoon Bhari Maang (1988) – Aarti Verma / Jyoti Verma
Rekha was fierce and unstoppable in this revenge drama film. It was exciting to watch her change from a betrayed woman to an avenger. The veteran actress won her a Filmfare Award for Best Actress and demonstrated her strength, showing that strength and beauty can coexist in a single frame.

Mr. Natwarlal (1979) – Shanno
Starring opposite Amitabh Bachchan, the veteran actress added a sparkle of humour and romance to this action-packed entertainer. The actress’s effortless elegance and playfulness made her character endearing, with her chemistry with Amitabh became the stuff of Bollywood legend.

Super Nani (2014) – Bharti Bhatia
The actress continued to serve as an inspiration to the Bollywood industry decades later. In her role as Bharti Bhatia, she appeared as a grandmother who finds her dreams and confidence while spreading a message of self-love and empowerment. It served as a gentle reminder that real beauty and spirit never fade with age.