1979 Blunder: How One Film Shattered Rajesh Khanna's Stardom and Paved Way for Bachchan

• Rajesh Khanna, once a superstar with 17 consecutive hits, saw his empire crumble after the 1979 film 'Janta Havaldar'.
• His refusal to shed his 'romantic king' image and choosing a 'foolish' constable role in 'Janta Havaldar' proved to be a critical mistake.
• The audience, accustomed to his serious roles, rejected his comedic portrayal in a torn uniform, damaging his larger-than-life image.
• Rajesh Khanna's indiscipline on set, including chronic lateness, led to a public confrontation with director Mehmood.
• The film's failure not only flopped but also drastically reduced his market value, ending his solo lead career and ushering in the Amitabh Bachchan era.