Fareeda Jalal with Rajesh Khanna
Veteran actress Farida Jalal turned back the clock recently as she lit up the stage of Indian Idol, recreating one of Bollywood’s most cherished moments from Aradhana. Seated gracefully on a swing alongside host Aditya Narayan, the actor brought alive the iconic track Baghon Mein Bahar Hain, originally picturised on her and Rajesh Khanna.“It was very nostalgic,” Farida told us, her voice tinged with emotion. “I enjoy watching song and dance-based reality shows. I enjoy singing, so it was fun being on Indian Idol. Recreating the whole scene took me back in time.” The production team left no stone unturned. “They had put up a swing just like it was in the original song. I remember Kaka (Rajesh Khanna) and I going around it and ultimately sitting on it. I miss him so much.
”Opening up about her memories with Rajesh Khanna, she added, “In the beginning, I felt it was hard to get along with him. But later on, I realised he was the warmest person on set. We became very friendly by the time we finished the film.”The bond only grew stronger post-release. “We began meeting often during the film’s success celebrations — from silver jubilee to diamond jubilee. Aradhana was such a hit film,” she said.
The actress shared a health update after she was recently seen attending an event with support. “I have a slip disc, so I’m not walking properly. I have to hold on to my son’s hand.”However, she remains optimistic about her recovery. “The doctor has said that in a couple of months I will be fine and I will be able to walk again. Once I’m good, I will be back on sets. I am definitely going to do films.”
