Rajesh Khanna didn’t plan on joining politics. But after Indira Gandhi’s death, a strong bond with Rajiv Gandhi changed everything. A smile, a request and Kaka stepped into Parliament.
“Rajiv Smiled, Kaka Said Yes: The Untold Story Behind Rajesh Khanna’s Political Entry”.
He Wasn’t Looking for Politics It Found Him
Rajesh Khanna, the man millions adored on screen never imagined he’d swap movie scripts for campaign speeches. After delivering 170+ iconic films he felt content. His stardom was untouched, but deep inside, something had shifted. “What more is left?” he often wondered. He wasn’t chasing another blockbuster. He was looking for meaning.
Indira Gandhi’s Death – Changed Everything
The year was 1984, the nation was in mourning Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had been assassinated. In those uncertain days Rajesh Khanna formed a close friendship with her son Rajiv Gandhi. Their bond grew naturally and quietly. Khanna began campaigning for Congress but entering politics himself? That was never his plan.
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A Smile from Rajiv and a Superstar Stepped In
In an old interview, Khanna recalled the moment that changed it all. Rajiv asked him to contest elections from New Delhi. “This isn’t my world,” Khanna replied at first. But when Rajiv smiled and asked again, something stirred. “I still remember that smile,” he said. “I couldn’t say no.” He ran for office and won.
Not Power. Just Purpose.
Rajesh Khanna had no hunger for titles. When Congress asked him to run again for Lok Sabha, he declined. “This isn’t my cup of tea,” he said with honesty. But he offered his support in another way. “If you think I can serve in Rajya Sabha, I’d be happy to.” It wasn’t about position it was about loyalty.
From Screen Legend to People’s Voice
In 1992, Rajesh Khanna won the New Delhi by-election and served as MP till 1996. It was a graceful second act built on respect not ambition. For him politics wasn’t a career move it was a promise kept to a friend. That’s the part of Kaka’s story that people often forget. But it’s the part that made him real.
