During a challenging financial period for Bollywood legend Rajesh Khanna, Sohail Khan reportedly made a substantial offer to buy Khanna’s iconic Aashirwad bungalow, an offer the superstar furiously rejected.
Rajesh Khanna’s Strained Finances
Rajesh Khanna, India’s first true superstar, experienced incredible highs and significant lows in his career. Towards the twilight of his acting journey, he faced considerable financial difficulties, leading to widespread rumors about his monetary struggles.
These whispers intensified, suggesting that Khanna might even consider selling his cherished home, Aashirwad. Adding to his woes, an income tax notice demanding a hefty sum further tarnished his public image and fueled the speculation.
An Unexpected Proposal
It was during this time that Salman Khan’s younger brother, Sohail Khan, expressed a keen interest in acquiring Aashirwad. Screenwriter Rumi Jaffery became the messenger, relaying the offer to Khanna.
The Khan family’s proposal was reportedly very generous. They were prepared to pay any amount for the property and even offered to settle Khanna’s outstanding income tax dues. As a further incentive, Salman Khan himself offered to star in a Rajesh Khanna production completely free of charge.
Khanna’s Fiery Reaction
However, Rajesh Khanna’s reaction to the proposal was anything but welcoming. When Rumi Jaffery presented the offer, Khanna reportedly erupted in anger. He accused Rumi of betrayal, exclaiming, “I consider you a son-in-law, and you want to sell my house… You want to bring me on the street!”
Jaffery later recalled the difficulty he faced in explaining that he was merely a messenger. Khanna’s fury highlighted his deep emotional attachment to Aashirwad and his reluctance to part with it, especially under duress.
A Symbol of Superstardom
For Rajesh Khanna, Aashirwad was far more than just a house; it was a potent symbol of his unparalleled superstardom and enduring legacy. He believed the bungalow held immense emotional value, not just for him, but for his legions of fans across the country.
He often likened himself to a king, whether on his throne or in exile, emphasizing that his status remained unshaken. Khanna firmly believed Aashirwad would stand forever, ensuring that the world would never forget Rajesh Khanna.
A Legacy Preserved
Rajesh Khanna continued to live in Aashirwad, even after his separation from wife Dimple Kapadia. He passed away in his beloved bungalow in 2011, fulfilling his wish to remain in the home that symbolized his greatness.
Years after the incident, Khanna even confronted Sohail Khan about the attempt to “buy him out.” Though Aashirwad was eventually sold to an industrialist and demolished for a new building, it remains an iconic part of Bollywood history, forever linked to its legendary owner.
- Rajesh Khanna faced significant financial hardship during his later career.
- Sohail Khan offered to buy Khanna’s Aashirwad bungalow, including paying his tax dues and Salman Khan acting for free.
- Khanna reacted with intense anger, viewing the offer as an attempt to strip him of his legacy.
- Aashirwad was deeply symbolic for Khanna, representing his superstardom and enduring fame.
- Khanna lived in Aashirwad until his death in 2011, preserving its connection to his legacy for his lifetime.
This incident offers a rare glimpse into the pride and passion of one of Hindi cinema’s most iconic figures, reminding us of the personal stories behind the dazzling lights of stardom.
