Exclusive: “Rekha used to think I was controlling Vinod Mehra’s life” – Moushumi Chatterjee

In a candid and revealing dialog on Filmfare’s In The Ring with Filmfare, veteran actress Moushumi Chatterjee opened up about her complicated relationship with fellow Seventies icon Rekha, shedding mild on the undercurrents of rivalry and insecurity that simmered beneath the floor of their skilled interactions. Moushumi, identified for her memorable roles in movies like Anuraag (1972) and Balika Badhu (1967), recounted situations the place Rekha’s behaviour prompt deep-seated insecurities.  “Rekha used to assume I’m controlling Vinod Mehra’s life,” she revealed, referring to their mutual co-star. “As a result of she is sitting in his home, and (Vinod’s) mom used to inform me, ‘Indu, Vinod ki cabinet mein se envelope nikal do’ (Indu, take the envelope out from Vinod’s cabinet). So naturally, she used to not prefer it.”

The strain between the 2 actresses was palpable on set as nicely. Throughout the filming of Prem Bandhan (1979), directed by Ramanand Sagar, Moushumi was requested to take away her heels to match Rekha’s barefoot top. She firmly declined, stating, “I’m a well-educated, prosperous lady. I used to be born and introduced up that manner. Why ought to I take off my footwear? You handle it. Give her a stool to face on.” This incident underscored the delicate energy dynamics and the challenges of navigating skilled relationships within the movie business. The rivalry prolonged past on-set interactions. Moushumi recalled how Rekha tried to interchange her within the movie Daasi (1981), directed by Raj Khosla. “She obtained fed up enjoying the second lady,” Moushumi stated. “She insisted to Raj Khosla, ‘Give me the position of Daasi, I ought to be Sanjeev Kumar’s spouse.’” Nonetheless, the director and his assistants reportedly laughed off the suggestion, recognising the power Moushumi delivered to the position. 

Reflecting on these experiences, Moushumi expressed a way of understanding.  “I used to be a sufferer,” she admitted. “However as soon as you’re a superstar, you can’t be an actual buddy. No one might be your actual buddy as a result of your superstar standing at all times is available in the best way.” Her phrases spotlight the isolating nature of fame and the complexities of relationships within the highlight.