आराधना

Aradhana review :

I first saw Aradhana in early 80s on DD National. The film made an overnight superstar out of Rajesh Khanna and Kaka, as he was lovingly called, ruled Bollywood for full five years (1969 to 1973) delivering fifteen consecutive hits in a row. A still unbroken record!!

While I loved Aradhana in general, there were a few factors which made me watch it again and again :

First and foremost, the Mere Sapnon ki Rani song, with its lively tune and excellent picturisation. The handsome Rajesh Khanna (with friend Sujit Kumar) in the jeep flirting with the gorgeous Sharmila Tagore aboard the Darjeeling train defines romance for me. Super!

Second, the Roop tera mastana number when in a weak moment, Rajesh and Sharmila consummate their love which doesn't end up in marriage due to Khanna's death and instead ends up with Tagore mothering his child who grows up to be Rajesh Khanna again (double role, o yea!). The sensuality of the song and Kishore Kumar's voice make it unforgettable. Erotica redefined!!

Last but not the least, Sharmila Tagore herself, who has never looked more beautiful. Her character going from a youngster to an old mamma gives her ample scope to perform and she's earnest and sincere. I fell in love with her Aradhana so much that I hated that villain Manmohan for making unwanted passes at her.

For me, Sharmila was Aradhana and everything else about it was just an icing on the cake for me. Kaka included!!

Regards, Sumeet Nadkarni.