In a rare and heartwarming moment at the 2015 Star Screen Awards, iconic Bollywood actress Rekha left fans stunned as she ran to hug Jaya Bachchan after Amitabh Bachchan was announced the winner of the Best Actor award for his role in Piku.
As Amitabh’s name echoed through the venue, signaling his win, Jaya and Amitabh Bachchan stood up to acknowledge the achievement. But the spotlight quickly shifted to Rekha, who was seated further away. In an unexpected move, Rekha dashed towards Jaya Bachchan, enveloping her in a warm embrace, much to the surprise of onlookers. The two legendary actresses then stood side by side, watching Amitabh accept the prestigious award.
This touching interaction was particularly significant due to the long-standing history and complex dynamics between Rekha, Amitabh, and Jaya. Rekha and Amitabh Bachchan have shared the silver screen in numerous Bollywood classics, with their most talked-about collaboration being Yash Chopra’s Silsila (1981), a film that also starred Jaya Bachchan and stirred much speculation about the real-life relationships between the trio.
Despite the off-screen gossip and the cultural impact of Silsila, which remains a notable part of Bollywood lore, Rekha and Amitabh never collaborated again after the film. In a candid 2004 interview with Simi Garewal, Rekha admitted to being “in love with” Amitabh Bachchan, but clarified that their connection was never personal, despite the rampant rumors.
The embrace between Rekha and Jaya at the awards ceremony was a poignant moment, offering a rare glimpse of warmth between two of Bollywood’s most iconic women, set against the backdrop of a momentous night for Amitabh Bachchan.
