The love triangle between Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, his wife Jaya Bachchan, and the legendary actress Rekha remains one of the most intriguing and talked-about controversies in the Indian film industry. Decades have passed, yet the mystery surrounding their relationships continues to captivate fans.
Recently, renowned film historian Hanif Zaveri shed new light on this high-profile love affair, revealing shocking details about Rekha’s entry into Amitabh’s life, their undeniable chemistry, and Jaya Bachchan’s strategy to save her marriage.
How Amitabh and Rekha’s Love Story Began
According to Zaveri, Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha’s relationship blossomed during the filming of “Do Anjaane” (1976).
I don’t know how their love started, but it is 100% certain that Amitabh and Rekha were deeply in love,he stated.
Their growing closeness became evident, sending shockwaves throughout the film industry. Despite Amitabh’s marriage to Jaya, Rekha and he continued to share a deep connection that was difficult to ignore.
Amitabh’s Accident Changed Everything
In 1982, during the shooting of “Coolie”, Amitabh suffered a life-threatening accident. His wife, Jaya Bachchan, stood by his side, taking care of him through his painful recovery.
This period, according to Zaveri, was a turning point.
Seeing Jaya’s devotion and unconditional love, Amitabh started leaning more towards his wife, and things began to change,he explained.
Jaya’s dedication reminded Amitabh of the strength of their bond, making him reconsider his relationship with Rekha.
Jaya Bachchan’s Bold Move to End Rekha’s Chapter
As the tension between Rekha and Amitabh grew, Jaya Bachchan made a strategic move.
According to Zaveri, Jaya invited Rekha to her house for lunch when Amitabh was away. After a polite meal and friendly conversation, Jaya confronted Rekha directly before she left.
Amitabh is mine, was mine, and will always be mine,Jaya told Rekha with firm confidence.
This statement left Rekha shocked and heartbroken, leading her to step back from Amitabh’s life. However, instead of animosity, this interaction sparked an unexpected friendship between Rekha and Jaya over time.
Was “Silsila” Based on Their Real-Life Love Triangle?
The 1981 film “Silsila”, starring Amitabh, Jaya, and Rekha, is widely believed to be inspired by their real-life love story.
However, Zaveri dismissed this speculation, stating that while Yash Chopra tried to portray their real emotions on screen, Jaya Bachchan was strongly against Rekha and was hesitant to work in the same film.
Jaya did not like Rekha at all, and she initially refused to act in ‘Silsila’. It was only after persistent requests that she agreed, he revealed.
Jaya’s Control Over Amitabh and Rekha’s Interaction
Zaveri also shared another shocking revelation about Jaya’s efforts to maintain her marriage.
During her time in Rajya Sabha (Indian Parliament), Jaya reportedly ensured that Amitabh never sat too close to Rekha during events. Her possessiveness extended to film sets as well.
For example, when offered a role in the film “Rishta”, Jaya initially declined but later agreed under one strict condition—she would be present on set every single day, even if she didn’t have a scene to shoot.
Rekha’s Heartbreaking Confession
Rekha has never shied away from expressing her feelings about Amitabh.
In a past interview, she confirmed that Jaya did invite her for dinner and directly told her, No matter what happens, I will never leave Amitabh.
This statement made it clear to Rekha that there was no future for her and Amitabh, leading her to accept the reality of the situation.
The Love Triangle That Shook Bollywood
The Amitabh-Jaya-Rekha love triangle remains one of Bollywood’s most compelling real-life dramas.
Despite the passionate love Amitabh and Rekha shared, Jaya’s patience, strength, and strategic decisions helped her protect her marriage.
While Amitabh and Jaya continue to be together, Rekha’s silent admiration for Amitabh still makes headlines, proving that some love stories remain unfinished—yet unforgettable.
