Shakti Samanta & Rajesh Khanna: The Iconic Duo Behind 3 Timeless Hits in 4 Years

• Filmmaker Shakti Samanta and superstar Rajesh Khanna formed an iconic duo, delivering three blockbuster films—Aradhana (1969), Kati Patang (1971), and Amar Prem (1972)—within four years.
• Their collaboration defined an era of Hindi cinema, blending romance, emotion, and unforgettable music, cementing Khanna's status as India's first true superstar.
• Aradhana, starring Khanna in a double role with Sharmila Tagore, became a cultural phenomenon, winning Filmfare Awards for Best Director, Actress, and Male Playback Singer.
• Kati Patang, inspired by Cornell Woolrich's novel, featured soul-stirring music and Khanna's powerful performance alongside Asha Parekh, earning her a Filmfare Award.
• Amar Prem, adapted from Bengali film Nishi Padma, showcased Khanna's sensitive portrayal of loneliness and compassion, becoming known for the iconic line "Pushpa, I hate tears."

Why It Matters: Shakti Samanta and Rajesh Khanna's collaboration created timeless Hindi cinema classics that shaped an era.