On the anniversary of his passing, the film industry and fans alike pay tribute to the legendary Vinod Khanna, an actor who defined charisma and versatility in Indian cinema. Beyond his iconic roles and dashing looks, here are five lesser-known facts about the man who was often called the “monk who sold his Mercedes”.
1. A Villainous Beginning
While many remember him for his heroic, larger-than-life portrayals, Vinod Khanna actually began his career as a villain. He made his mark in the industry by playing negative roles with such intense conviction that he often stole the spotlight from the leads. It was only later that he transitioned into the iconic hero roles that solidified his status as one of Bollywood’s biggest heartthrobs.
2. The Spiritual Journey to Rajneeshpuram
At the absolute peak of his career in the early 1980s, when he was arguably as popular as Amitabh Bachchan, Khanna made the shocking decision to leave the film industry. He became a dedicated disciple of Osho Rajneesh and moved to ‘Rajneeshpuram’ in the United States. During his time there, he reportedly lived a life of service, cleaning toilets and washing dishes, a far cry from the glamour he was accustomed to in Mumbai.
3. A Chance Encounter with his Second Wife
Vinod Khanna met his second wife, Kavita, under rather unusual circumstances. He was hosting a party at his residence, and Kavita, who had not been invited, happened to be present through a series of coincidental events. This serendipitous meeting blossomed into a long-lasting partnership that remained strong until his passing.
4. A Connection Across Borders
Khanna’s reach extended beyond Indian cinema; he also appeared in a lead role in the 2007 Pakistani film Godfather. This marked a significant cross-border collaboration and was his only appearance in Pakistani cinema, showcasing his willingness to explore diverse narratives throughout his career.
5. An Uncanny Anniversary Coincidence
In a poignant twist of fate, Vinod Khanna passed away on April 27, 2017—a date that is also the death anniversary of his close friend and Qurbani co-star, Feroz Khan. Feroz Khan had passed away on the exact same date eight years earlier, in 2009. This shared date of departure remains a haunting yet meaningful detail for fans who celebrate their enduring cinematic legacy on April 27th