On the 14th death anniversary of legendary Bollywood actor Rajesh Khanna, memories of his final days have resurfaced through past remarks made by Anita Advani, who was described as his alleged partner. Rajesh Khanna, widely regarded as India’s first superstar, died on July 18, 2012, at the age of 69 after a prolonged illness. Recalling the actor’s final year in a previous interview with the YouTube channel of Avanti Films, Anita spoke about his declining health and emotional state during that period. She said she found it difficult to see the actor, who had dominated Indian cinema for decades, struggle with his condition.

“He melted away in one year. I couldn’t see him like that. He would cry all day long,” Anita had said while describing Rajesh Khanna’s health and emotional challenges before his death. When asked whether she believed the actor had somehow anticipated or manifested his death, she responded, “He invited it, manifested it.” Anita also recalled that she would often disagree with Rajesh Khanna when he expressed negative thoughts about his health and future. She said she tried to encourage him and did not want him to lose hope during the difficult phase of his life.

According to Anita, around a year before his death, Rajesh Khanna’s wife Dimple Kapadia and daughters Twinkle Khanna and Rinke Khanna began visiting him regularly. The actor’s family had remained connected with him during his final period as his health condition worsened. Rajesh Khanna’s career remains one of the most celebrated chapters in Hindi cinema. Born Jatin Khanna, he became a cultural phenomenon in the late 1960s and early 1970s after delivering a series of successful films. His popularity among audiences earned him the title of Bollywood’s first superstar.

Also Read: Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Storms India Box Office With ₹17 Crore Opening

The actor delivered several iconic performances in films such as Aradhana, Anand, Amar Prem and Kati Patang, establishing a legacy that continues to influence generations of actors. His romantic image, distinctive style and emotional performances made him one of the most admired stars in Indian film history. Rajesh Khanna’s health reportedly declined in the years before his death, and he made fewer public appearances during his later years.

He passed away at his Mumbai residence on July 18, 2012, following a period of illness. His death was followed by widespread tributes from fans, colleagues and members of the film industry. As fans remember the actor years after his passing, discussions around his personal life and final days continue to attract attention. Anita Advani’s recollections offer one perspective on the emotional struggles Rajesh Khanna experienced during the last phase of his life, while his contribution to Indian cinema remains his enduring legacy.

Also Read: Dilip Joshi Addresses Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah Exit Speculation