The late 1960s and early 1970s marked a golden era in Bollywood history, dominated by the charismatic and immensely talented Rajesh Khanna. From October 1969 to June 1971, Rajesh Khanna delivered an astonishing 14 hits out of 15 films, a record that remains unmatched in Indian cinema.
This period of unprecedented success established Rajesh Khanna as the biggest box office force of his time, making him an enduring icon in the annals of Bollywood.
His historic run began on October 10, 1969, with the simultaneous release of two films: Doli and Ittefaq. Both films were hits, grossing ₹1.25 crore and ₹1.15 crore respectively. This marked the onset of a phenomenal phase that saw Rajesh Khanna dominate the box office with consecutive hits.
Aradhana (November 7, 1969)
India Nett Gross: ₹3.80 crore
Verdict: Super Blockbuster
Do Raaste (December 5, 1969)
India Nett Gross: ₹3.85 crore
Verdict: Super Blockbuster
Bandhan (December 26, 1969)
India Nett Gross: ₹1.85 crore
Verdict: Super Hit
With these back-to-back successes, Rajesh Khanna’s superstardom was firmly cemented. His ability to draw audiences to theaters was unparalleled, and he quickly became a household name across India.
The Train (April 10, 1970)
India Nett Gross: ₹1.40 crore
Verdict: Hit
Sachaa Jhutha (May 1, 1970)
India Nett Gross: ₹2.85 crore
Verdict: Blockbuster
Safar (October 1, 1970)
India Nett Gross: ₹1.70 crore
Verdict: Hit
Aan Milo Sajna (December 24, 1970)
India Nett Gross: ₹2.65 crore
Verdict: Blockbuster
Each release solidified Khanna’s position as the leading star of Bollywood, with his films consistently performing exceptionally well at the box office.
Kati Patang (January 29, 1971)
India Nett Gross: ₹2.10 crore
Verdict: Super Hit
Mehboob Ki Mehendi (February 19, 1971)
India Nett Gross: ₹0.90 crore
Verdict: Flop
The only blemish in this remarkable run was Mehboob Ki Mehendi, which, despite being Khanna’s most expensive film at the time, did not perform well. This marked the end of his golden streak of consecutive hits.
Anand (March 12, 1971)
India Nett Gross: ₹1.80 crore
Verdict: Hit
Andaz (April 30, 1971)
India Nett Gross: ₹2.30 crore
Verdict: Super Hit
Haathi Mere Saathi (May 28, 1971)
India Nett Gross: ₹4.10 crore
Verdict: Super Blockbuster
Maryada (May 28, 1971)
India Nett Gross: ₹2.50 crore
Verdict: Super Hit
Rajesh Khanna’s phenomenal run concluded with Maryada in June 1971, bringing to an end a period of cinematic dominance that has yet to be replicated. Over these 21 months, His films were characterized by their emotional depth, memorable music, and his own magnetic screen presence.
While Rajesh Khanna continued to deliver hits after 1971, his most extraordinary period was undoubtedly from 1969 to 1971. From 1969 to 1974, he delivered a total of 10 blockbuster films, more than any other Indian actor within a six-year span. However, after 1974, Rajesh Khanna faced a major decline in his career, marking the end of his reign as the undisputed king of the box office.
Rajesh Khanna’s golden run at the box office from October 1969 to June 1971 remains one of the most remarkable achievements in the history of Indian cinema. His unparalleled success during this period set a benchmark for future generations of actors and continues to be celebrated by fans and film historians alike.
His legacy as the “First Superstar” of Bollywood is a testament to his extraordinary talent and the magical connection he forged with his audience.
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