Hassan Jahangir recalls Rekha's 'love letter'

Pakistani pop singer says he has declined Bollywood lead roles

KARACHI:

Pakistani pop singer Hassan Jahangir has reflected on the height of his popularity in India, recalling his friendships with Bollywood stars, speaking about reports of receiving a "love letter" from veteran actress Rekha, and revealing that he regrets turning down several offers to work as a lead actor in Indian films.

Jahangir, who rose to fame in the 1980s with chart-topping songs such as Hawa Hawa, recently appeared on a podcast where he looked back on his career and the success he enjoyed across the border.

During the conversation, the host referred to long-standing reports that actress Rekha had once written him a love letter when Hawa Hawa became a major hit in India.

Responding to the claim, Jahangir did not directly confirm or deny it. Instead, he said, "Love can happen at any age. Some things are better kept private." He added that he was warmly received in India and never faced any difficulties during his visits.

The singer also said he remains on good terms with several Bollywood personalities, including Madhuri Dixit, Govinda, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Mithun Chakraborty, adding that they still exchange warm messages from time to time.

Speaking about the biggest regret of his career, Jahangir said he was offered five or six Indian films as a hero and later rejected seven lead roles alongside some of Bollywood's biggest actresses.

"I was offered films with stars like Neelam and Madhuri, but I declined the projects and returned to Pakistan. Looking back, I feel any one of those films could have become a hit," he said.

Hassan Jahangir began his music career in 1986 and became one of Pakistan's most recognisable pop stars with songs including Hawa Hawa, Hato Bacho and Pyar Pakistan.