As the much-anticipated 18th season of Bigg Boss, hosted by Salman Khan, gears up for its grand premiere on October 6, 2024, an intriguing revelation has surfaced about a legendary Bollywood figure from the 1970s. The late Rajesh Khanna, often hailed as the first superstar of Indian cinema, was reportedly offered a staggering Rs 3.5 crore per episode to participate in the controversial reality show. However, the iconic actor turned down the lucrative offer, citing personal reasons and his disinterest in reality television.
SOURCE : ZEE
Rajesh Khanna, whose charm and acting prowess dominated the silver screen in the 1970s, was approached by the makers of Bigg Boss during a challenging phase in his career. Despite his immense popularity and a string of blockbuster hits like Anand, Amar Prem, and Kati Patang, Khanna faced a decline in his career during the later years. It was during this period that the producers of Bigg Boss saw an opportunity to bring the superstar into the limelight once again.
Source:- bbc news
According to veteran journalist Ali Peter John, who was close to Rajesh Khanna, the actor was initially hesitant about participating in the show. The makers of Bigg Boss, eager to have a star of his caliber, offered him Rs 3.5 crore per episode, a sum that was unprecedented at the time. Despite the tempting offer, Khanna remained firm in his decision to stay away from reality television.
“Rajesh Khanna was a man of principles and had a certain image to uphold,” said Ali Peter John. “He believed that participating in a reality show like Bigg Boss would not align with his persona and the legacy he had built over the years.”
Interestingly, the story took a twist when Khanna reconsidered the offer a few days later. However, by then, the makers of Bigg Boss had moved on and lost interest. It is speculated that the season Khanna was approached for was hosted by his contemporary and rival, Amitabh Bachchan. The rivalry between the two megastars was well-known, and it is believed that Khanna’s initial refusal was partly influenced by his reluctance to share the screen with Bachchan.
Rajesh Khanna’s decision to decline the offer did not diminish his legendary status. He continued to be remembered as the quintessential romantic hero who redefined stardom in Bollywood. His fans, who still cherish his memorable performances, respect his choice to stay true to his principles.
As Bigg Boss 18 prepares to entertain audiences with its new season, the revelation about Rajesh Khanna adds a layer of nostalgia and intrigue. The show, known for its drama and controversies, will once again bring together a diverse group of contestants under one roof, vying for the coveted title.
While Rajesh Khanna’s presence in the Bigg Boss house remains a tantalizing “what if” scenario, his legacy as a superstar who stayed true to his values continues to inspire. As viewers eagerly await the new season, the story of Khanna’s refusal serves as a reminder of the golden era of Bollywood and the timeless appeal of its stars.
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