Top 20 Most Iconic Bollywood Affairs

Bollywood, the world of glamour and stardom, has witnessed its fair share of romantic entanglements that often captured more attention than the films themselves. The affairs of Bollywood celebrities have fascinated fans, reflecting the complex interplay of passion, heartbreak, and societal norms. Here are the top 20 most iconic and talked-about Bollywood affairs.

1. Raj Kapoor and Nargis

Raj Kapoor, the legendary showman of Bollywood, and Nargis, one of the finest actresses of her time, shared a romance that resonated on and off-screen. Despite being married to Krishna Kapoor, Raj Kapoor’s passionate relationship with Nargis was the talk of the town. Their on-screen chemistry in classics like Awaara and Shree 420 mirrored their off-screen bond. However, societal pressures and Kapoor’s refusal to leave his family led to their separation. Nargis later found solace in Sunil Dutt, who saved her from a fire on the sets of Mother India.

2. Dev Anand and Suraiya

Dev Anand’s love for the singing star Suraiya remains one of Bollywood’s most tragic stories. The two fell deeply in love, but Suraiya’s conservative Muslim family disapproved of their relationship. Despite Dev Anand’s numerous attempts to convince her family, Suraiya refused to go against their wishes. Heartbroken, Dev Anand moved on, while Suraiya remained unmarried till her death.

3. Guru Dutt and Waheeda Rehman

Guru Dutt’s relationship with Waheeda Rehman created turmoil in his personal life. Married to playback singer Geeta Dutt, Guru Dutt’s growing affection for Waheeda was evident in their collaborations. Films like Pyaasa and Kaagaz Ke Phool showcased their artistic synergy. However, guilt and inner turmoil consumed Guru Dutt, leading to his untimely death.

4. Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha

The alleged affair between Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha remains Bollywood’s most talked-about scandal. Despite Amitabh’s marriage to Jaya Bachchan, his chemistry with Rekha in films like Silsila fueled rumors. Rekha’s open admiration for Amitabh further intensified the gossip. While none of them publicly acknowledged the affair, the lingering tension and Rekha’s symbolic gestures at events kept the rumors alive.

5. Rajesh Khanna and Anju Mahendru

Rajesh Khanna, Bollywood’s first superstar, was in a long-term relationship with actress Anju Mahendru before marrying Dimple Kapadia. Their relationship ended on a bitter note, with reports of Rajesh Khanna’s controlling behavior. Even after their breakup, Anju Mahendru maintained a dignified silence, while Rajesh Khanna’s turbulent personal life continued to make headlines.

6. Dilip Kumar and Madhubala

The romance between Dilip Kumar and Madhubala was one for the ages. Their chemistry in films like Mughal-e-Azam was a reflection of their real-life relationship. However, the fallout during the making of the film due to legal issues with Madhubala’s father ended their love story. Dilip Kumar later married Saira Banu, while Madhubala’s health deteriorated due to a congenital heart condition.

7. Meena Kumari and Dharmendra

The tragedy queen of Bollywood, Meena Kumari, reportedly found companionship in Dharmendra. Their clandestine affair was widely speculated upon, as Dharmendra was already married. Despite the whispers, both actors continued to deny the allegations. Meena Kumari’s life ended in sorrow, with her unfulfilled love stories adding to her legacy.

8. Sanjeev Kumar and Hema Malini

Sanjeev Kumar’s unrequited love for Hema Malini is one of Bollywood’s most poignant tales. Despite his heartfelt affection, Hema chose Dharmendra, who was already married. Sanjeev Kumar never married, and his unfulfilled love remained a constant source of melancholy.

9. Parveen Babi and Mahesh Bhatt

Parveen Babi’s tumultuous relationship with Mahesh Bhatt was marked by her struggles with mental health. Mahesh Bhatt, inspired by their relationship, made the film Arth, which portrayed the complexities of love and betrayal. Despite their separation, Bhatt continued to support her through her battles with schizophrenia.

10. Raj Babbar and Smita Patil

Raj Babbar’s relationship with Smita Patil created waves as he left his wife Nadira for the actress. Smita Patil’s tragic death shortly after childbirth left Raj Babbar devastated. Despite the criticism, he continued to honor her memory.

11. Vinod Khanna and Amrita Singh

Vinod Khanna and Amrita Singh’s rumored affair was a fleeting chapter in Bollywood’s gossip columns. Their relationship never culminated in marriage, and both moved on to pursue their respective lives.

12. Sridevi and Mithun Chakraborty

Sridevi and Mithun Chakraborty’s alleged affair was a controversial subject, especially since Mithun was married to Yogeeta Bali. Despite reports suggesting a secret marriage, Sridevi later married Boney Kapoor, and the rumors died down.

13. Rekha and Kiran Kumar

Before her more prominent relationships, Rekha was rumored to be involved with actor Kiran Kumar. The affair, however, remained under wraps and faded with time.

14. Shatrughan Sinha and Reena Roy

Shatrughan Sinha’s affair with Reena Roy during the peak of his career caused turmoil in his marriage to Poonam Sinha. While he eventually chose his family, the emotional impact of the relationship lingered.

15. Dimple Kapadia and Sunny Deol

After separating from Rajesh Khanna, Dimple Kapadia’s alleged relationship with Sunny Deol was a matter of intense speculation. Despite neither confirming the relationship, their bond was evident through various public appearances.

16. Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai

Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai’s volatile relationship ended in allegations of abuse and harassment. While Aishwarya moved on with Abhishek Bachchan, Salman Khan’s aggressive behavior during the relationship remained controversial.

17. Akshay Kumar and Raveena Tandon

Akshay Kumar and Raveena Tandon’s engagement ended on a bitter note, with accusations of infidelity. Raveena’s public statements about Akshay’s unfaithfulness only fueled the media frenzy.

18. John Abraham and Bipasha Basu

John Abraham and Bipasha Basu’s decade-long relationship ended abruptly, with rumors of infidelity. While both have since moved on, their breakup left fans shocked.

19. Dharmendra and Hema Malini

Dharmendra’s decision to convert to Islam to marry Hema Malini while still married to Prakash Kaur was highly controversial. Despite the backlash, their marriage has stood the test of time.

20. Raj Kapoor and Vyjayanthimala

Following his affair with Nargis, Raj Kapoor’s closeness with Vyjayanthimala sparked further gossip. While Vyjayanthimala later denied the relationship, the rumors added to the complexities of Kapoor’s personal life.

These stories, woven with love, heartbreak, and resilience, remain an integral part of Bollywood’s legacy. They serve as a reminder of the human emotions that often transcend the glamour of the silver screen.