Rekha's rare outing: Eternal Indian star makes jaws drop with her first-ever 'Vogue' cover

The feature dives into her personal life, wins, struggles, and more

In a captivating and unprecedented move, Bollywood's enigmatic icon, Rekha, graced Vogue Arabia's July/August 2023 issue, marking her first-ever appearance on the esteemed fashion magazine's cover. Known for her fiercely guarded privacy and elusive nature, Rekha not only granted a rare interview but also bared her soul in a heartwarmingly candid conversation. The extraordinary feature, penned by Bandana Tiwari, offers an intimate glimpse into the life and journey of a true cinematic legend.

The article accompanying a dizzying array of otherworldly, ethereal looks (styled by Manish Malhotra) talks about how Rekha, hailed as the most iconic woman from India by Dior creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri, exudes a magnetic aura that has captivated audiences for over five decades. Speaking about her brilliance, cinema legend Shah Rukh Khan once said, "Her charisma is unmatched, and she leaves an indelible mark on every role she portrays.” Additionally, popular actor Deepika Padukone once stated, “Rekha’s aura is magnetic. She can effortlessly captivate an entire audience with just a glance, and her performances are a masterclass in acting.”

As highlighted in the issue, Rekha was born on October 10, 1954, to renowned Tamil actor Gemini Ganesan and Telugu star Pushpavalli. Her talent was recognized at a young age. Her mother, a source of inspiration and guidance, instilled in her the grace and love that would become the foundation of her life. Speaking about her mother, Rekha stated, "She taught me the grace of living with gentility and love. She always said I should never lose the ankh ki chamak, or ‘twinkle in the eyes,’ because it is that joyful perception that makes one appreciate the beauty of a tiny seed that grows into a majestic tree. She also advised me wisely to practice what I love, not what I preach. She set the benchmark for me, because my mother walked the talk.”

Two iconic films, Umrao Jaan (1981) and Utsav (1984) play a significant role in understanding Rekha's inner and outer world, as per Tiwari. In both movies, she portrayed the role of a refined courtesan. Rekha's performances in these films not only showcased her exceptional acting skills but also highlighted the cultural significance and empowerment of these women. By breathing life into these characters, Rekha became a beacon of change in a young democracy, inspiring generations of artists, dancers, designers, and actors.

Rekha's self-introspection and profound connection to the arts and beauty have always shaped her cinematic persona. As she gracefully expressed in the Vogue Arabia interview, "I have always lived like an Indian princess, not that anyone is privy to it. I live like that because I feel it. It's not just a state of mind, but the state of my life." Her love for poetry, pathos, and philosophy resonates with the enchantment she brings to the silver screen.

While Rekha has not appeared in any films since 2014, she considers herself a "joyful and fulfilled recluse." She chooses to appear in public only when her instincts guide her, cherishing the freedom to say no and select projects that resonate with her love for the craft. Her collaboration with Vogue Arabia, her first-ever Vogue cover, exemplifies this selective approach, as the magazine's editor-in-chief, Manuel Arnaut, extended a heartfelt invitation that Rekha couldn't resist.

"My person is my own, but my cinematic persona is in the eyes of the beholder. Therefore I choose where I want to be and where I don’t want to be. I am so blessed to have earned the right to choose what I love. And to have the luxury to simply say no. This keeps my soul alert,” said Rekha in the interview. Talking about the feature becoming a reality, Rekha said, “I simply loved the way it chose me. The way Manuel, the editor-in-chief, followed his own instinct, and had the courage and kindness to ask me, was endearing and irresistible.”

In the months leading up to the cover shoot, Rekha immersed herself in every aspect of the production, working closely with Malhotra to bring her sartorial vision to life. She acknowledged the dedication and commitment of the team, especially Manish, whom she describes as a "wise, patient pujari [priest]." Together, they crafted a visual spectacle that beautifully melded traditional Indian couture with contemporary global fashion trends, resulting in stunning ensembles that exuded elegance and timeless beauty. “Manish moved heaven and earth to craft my vision into clothes. To have him leave everything and work tirelessly with me like a wise, patient pujari [priest], I couldn’t have asked for a better executioner of my dreams," said Rekha.

The cover shoot itself was a testament to Rekha's magnetic presence and innate sense of style. Set against the backdrop of a regal palace, she effortlessly commanded attention in each frame. The renowned photographer, Suresh Natarajan, skillfully captured her enigmatic allure, immortalising her in a series of breathtaking images. Throughout the interview, Rekha delved into her personal life and the lessons she has learned along her journey. 

“I worship the values of my family and my culture," said the star. "For me, even the simple act of cleaning my home is an act of sewa (spiritual service). When my mother talked about the chamak or the ‘twinkle in the eyes,’ I now see it on the surface of a well-polished pillar or a glistening chandelier. And imagine what that little glint must look like in my home that is lit up at night, not by electricity, but by hundreds of fragrant candles. I do not need to go to a temple to pray, my home is my shrine to the joy of now. My garden alone has 20-odd alcoves of prayer. All I need to be is still and present. My life feels like a living dream.”

The Vogue Arabia feature on Rekha stands as a tribute to her iconic status and enduring legacy. It is a celebration of a woman who has defied conventions, captivated hearts, and left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. Through her rare appearances and selective projects, Rekha continues to inspire generations of artists, proving that true beauty transcends time and age. Rekha defies time and expectations. "I am my own hugely amused audience," she said in the feature, providing an all-too-accurate summary of the magnanimity that she possesses.

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