Meet actress who worked in many hit films, married a star on one condition, left him, now lives with snakes, dogs, and cows; She is…

Even at this stage of her life, this veteran actress chooses to live alone, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. She has a number of domestic animals she personally takes care of.

This veteran actress, popularly known by her first name, needs no introduction in the world of acting. The hazel-eyed beauty ruled the silver screen in the 1970s, starring in numerous films and carving a special place in the hearts of millions of fans. Every time we hear the iconic dialogue ‘Mere Karan Arjun aayenge,’ only one face comes to mind – Rakhee. Speaking of her personal life, Rakhee has been married twice. Initially, as a teenager, she tied the knot with journalist-turned-Bengali film director Ajay Biswas. However, their marriage was short-lived, and they parted ways in 1965.

In 1973, her marriage to one of the most prolific writers and shayars of that time, Gulzar, made headlines. Gulzar was deeply enamored by Rakhee’s charm, and fortunately for him, she reciprocated his love. That same year, they welcomed their daughter, Meghna. However, their marriage lasted only a little over a year.

Before their marriage, Gulzar made it clear to Rakhee that he had a traditional, old-school mindset and wanted her to quit acting after their wedding. He believed it was inappropriate for a married woman to work in films and was against Rakhee’s continued career in the industry.

Although she agreed to his condition, the ever-hopeful Rakhee held on to the belief that she could still act in films directed by Gulzar. However, to her disappointment, despite her requests, Gulzar never cast her in any of his films. Meanwhile, several filmmakers, producers, and directors were eager to sign Rakhee for their projects. But whenever she discussed these offers with Gulzar, he reacted unfavorably. As a result, she had to turn them all down. Eventually, during the filming of Aandhi, Gulzar’s closeness with Suchitra Sen led to their separation.

Few people know that despite turning 77, Rakhee still possesses immense grit and determination. Even at this stage of her life, she chooses to live alone, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. She once shared, “I don’t need money anymore. I do my work myself and live a happy life with my animals.”

Rakhee’s love for animals runs deep. She has a number of domestic animals, including dogs, cows, snakes and birds, at her farmhouse in Panvel, all of whom she personally takes care of.