Happy birthday Rekha. The timeless beauty of Hindi cinema, turns 68 today on October 10. She has appeared in over 180 films and has been awarded the Padma Shri. Rekha is one of today’s most iconic actresses, known for her silken, husky voice, mesmerising dancing abilities, and exceptional acting abilities.

Lets take a quick glance at her Top 10 Best Movies that reveals the enormous range and versatility the actress has demonstrated since her debut as a child artiste in 1958.

1. Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978)

The film is a testament to Rekha and Amitabh Bachchan’s electrifying chemistry. Her character, Zohra Bai, became a symbol of selfless love, and songs like Salaam-E-Ishq Meri Jaan are still popular. https://youtu.be/V0Lx_4d7RS0

2. Ghar (1978)

A gruesome incident disrupts Vikas and Aarti’s happy life, causing a psychological distance between them. Rekha’s portrayal of a rape survivor in this film is one of sensitivity and empathy. Also, don’t miss the lovely songs. https://youtu.be/AmcN4kfQO0o

3. Mr Natwarlal (1979)

Another Amitabh Bachchan film And Rekha in lead roles, with songs that are still fresh in fans’ minds. A criminal named Vikram frames a police officer for bribery. By posing as an underworld don, the officer’s younger brother decides to exact revenge on th criminal. https://youtu.be/Plr5cide7Jk

4.Khubsoorat (1980)

Rekha was the original embodiment of confidence and charm in Khubsoorat, long before Sonam Kapoor and Fawad Khan gave us the modern-day fairytale. This is a must-see with your girl squad. https://youtu.be/aKn-_E3ZTMg

5.Umrao Jaan (1981)

This film is a must-see because it defined Rekha’s status in the industry. Songs like Dil Cheez Kya Hai and In Ankhon Ki Masti Ke are still played whenever Rekha appears on a reality show or at an event. She also received a National Award for her performance as the titular courtesan. https://youtu.be/_lQkWPvXH1E

6. Silsila (1981)

Silsila is regarded as one of Bollywood’s most popular films. Many felt that the love triangle in the film between Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, and Rekha was a reflection of their off-screen lives as well. https://youtu.be/3fitoGOQYv0

7.Utsav (1984)

Utsav, directed by Girish Karnad, is a visual poem with Rekha delivering a stunning performance in each shot. Balancing both sensuality and vulnerability, this was Rekha in a never-seen-before avatar. https://youtu.be/QLbuM8uCodY

8.Ijaazat (1987)

Mera Kuch Saamaan, the unforgettable love ballad from this fine film, will be remembered. Gulazar’s Ijaazat, on the other hand, is beloved for its gentle and respectful examination of the complexities of a broken marriage and human relationships. Each frame of Rekha as a woman who runs into her exhusband (Naseeruddin Shah) on a stormy night is a revelation. https://youtu.be/yRb3rUv5sHY

9. Khoon Bhari Maang (1988)

Rekha gave us a heroine for the ages in Rakesh Roshan’s Khoon Bhari Maang at a time when female-led films were still considered an anomaly. Even today, her portrayal of a docile housewife who is forced to transform into a whip-wielding force of nature is a fan favourite. https://youtu.be/z_VzPpRqTTM

10. Lajja (2001)

Despite an ensemble cast, Rekha held her own as Ramdulari, a village midwife who refuses to bend down to patriarchy. Vaidehi, pregnant with her abusive husband’s child, decides to escape her marriage. With the aid of Raju, she meets four courageous women who put up a brave fight against male chauvinism. https://youtu.be/7xI_SaN10UE

Let us know in the comments which Rekha film is your favourite!