When Raj Babbar admitted being in a relationship with Rekha after Smita Patil’s demise: 'We drifted together because of..."

Raj Babbar has always been a man of many talents, an actor, a politician, and someone who lived life with intensity both on and off the screen. He began his acting career in 1977 with the film 'Kissa Kursi Ka' and quickly made his mark. Trained at the NSD, Raj stunned audiences with his bold performance as the villain in 'Insaaf Ka Taraazu'. He went on to impress further in films like 'Nikaah' and 'Aaj Ki Awaz', where he starred alongside Smita Patil.

But just like his career, Raj’s personal life also made headlines, especially the love and loss he experienced during the most turbulent years of his life. After the tragic demise of his second wife, Smita Patil.

A love story that challenged norms
In 1975, Raj Babbar married Nadira Zaheer. The two had a strong connection and went on to have two children, Juhi Babbar and Arya Babbar. But life took a surprising turn when Raj met the charismatic and fearless actress Smita Patil on the sets of 'Bheegi Palkein'. Raj was completely taken in by Smita’s charm. Her beauty, intelligence and presence swept him off his feet. Even though he was already married, Raj couldn’t stop himself from falling in love again, and eventually got married.

Their decision made them the talk of the town. While many criticised Raj for leaving Nadira, others judged Smita for being a ‘homewrecker’. But for Raj and Smita, love meant everything. They faced the world together, boldly and unapologetically.

A heartbreaking loss
In 1986, tragedy struck. Smita passed away due to complications during childbirth. Her death was sudden and devastating, not just for Raj, but also for her fans. The couple had just welcomed their baby boy, Prateik Babbar, into the world when Smita breathed her last.

As reported by BollywoodShaadis, Raj was shattered. His world had collapsed. Amid this deep emotional pain, Raj found comfort in someone who, like him, was also dealing with her own heartbreak, the legendary actress Rekha.
When Raj found comfort in Rekha
It was during this lonely and painful time that Raj and Rekha grew close. In an old interview reported by IBTimes, Raj confessed, “Yes, our relationship helped me in a way. We drifted together because of certain circumstances. At that time, Rekha had broken off from a long-standing relationship.”

Their connection came from shared experiences of hurt, confusion, and the need for emotional healing. Though short-lived, it was real in its own way. Raj further explained the nature of their relationship, saying, “I was not as involved with Rekha as I was with Smita. The intensity wasn't there. At the same time I cannot say that we were friends.”

Despite their strong bond, Raj and Rekha's relationship didn't last. Both realised it started from a place of heartbreak and wasn't built to last. Raj Babbar, still married with children, chose to go back to his first wife, Nadira. This decision deeply upset Rekha, leaving her heartbroken and struggling to move on. The relationship, born from difficult times, couldn't survive Raj's decision to return to his family, leaving Rekha to face the pain of another ending. Over the years, Raj Babbar has continued to balance his professional and personal life, carrying the weight of his past with grace. Despite everything, he emerged stronger, always choosing to face life head-on with resilience and honesty.