Happy 70th Birthday, Rekha: When She Wrote An Emotional Letter To Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

The veteran actress Rekha turned 70 today, October 10. Over her decades-long career, she has not only left an indelible mark with her roles but has also built lasting, meaningful relationships with the people of the industry. Among these, Rekha’s affectionate bond with actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan stands out.

When the Jodhaa Akbar actress celebrated 20 years in the film industry in 2014, Rekha couldn’t help but pen a heartfelt letter for her “Ash.” Her letter began with admiration for Aishwarya, where she said, “A woman like you who is in harmony with her spirit is like a flowing river, never stagnant. She goes where she wants to without pretence and arrives at her destination prepared to be herself and only herself.”

She further added that people often forget actions and words, but they never forget how one made them feel. Highlighting Aishwarya’s courage, Rekha mentioned that she was “a living example of courage being the most important virtue” as she believed that without courage, one wouldn’t be able to practice any other virtue consistently. The veteran actress further noted that Aishwarya’s “deep strength and pure energy” is very influential.

Admiring the actress’ wisdom, she added, “The wisest thing you did was to be present with the ‘present’ with gratitude. You pursued the things you loved doing and then did them so well that people can’t take their eyes off you! You, on your own, are enough, with nothing to prove to anyone. Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away.”

Rekha compared Aishwarya with Phoenix and mentioned that she was really proud of the “cool moon-faced girl” who took her breath away the first time she laid her eyes on her. “You always gave better than the best to all the roles you were bestowed with, but my most cherished character of yours is the role of the complete ‘Amma’ that you are to the little bundle of pure joy called Aaradhya. Keep loving and spreading your magic.”

She continued, “Two decades of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan- wow! Aashirwads and duas I wish for you more goodness and blessings; much more than your heart can contain!” wrote the veteran actress as she concluded her letter.” Rekha signed off the letter by saying, “Love you. Jeete raho. Rekha Ma,” highlighting the adorable motherly bond that she continues to share with Aishwarya.