Actor and social activist Somy Ali shared an emotional tribute to legendary actor Rajesh Khanna as she remembered him on his birthday, December 29. For Somy, the day is not just a date on the calendar but a deeply personal reminder of the man who inspired her love for cinema and shaped her childhood dreams. Somy revealed that Rajesh Khanna was her absolute favorite and the reason she fell in love with films while growing up in Karachi. His movies, she said, were her escape and her first understanding of emotions, love, and heartbreak on screen. She recalled meeting him when she was just seven years old and telling him she would marry him one day. The late actor responded with warmth, smiling, kissing her forehead, and giving her a chocolate, a memory she still cherishes. Talking about his films, Somy said it is impossible for her to choose just one favorite. However, Aradhana holds a special place in her heart, especially his chemistry with Sharmila Tagore. She also expressed her deep admiration for his films with Mumtaz, calling their on screen pairing exceptionally beautiful and Mumtaz herself absolutely stunning. Somy shared that Anand taught her how to live fully even in pain, and the film’s iconic moments continue to bring both tears and smiles. Bawarchi, on the other hand, represents pure joy for her, showing how kindness can transform an entire family. She said this is the film she watches on his birthday, as it reminds her that simple humanity has the power to heal. She added that her work with families through her NGO No More Tears is inspired by the values reflected in that film. She also spoke about Khamoshi, calling it a film far ahead of its time for addressing mental health and the silent struggles of caregivers. According to Somy, the performances by Rajesh Khanna and Waheeda Rehman portrayed emotional pain with honesty and compassion, something that resonates deeply with her today as she works with survivors carrying unseen wounds. Calling Rajesh Khanna a phenomenon, Somy said she firmly believes his stardom remains unmatched. She described him as the first true megastar, whose charm, style, and presence created a kind of frenzy that has never been repeated. She credited him with inspiring her to pursue higher education in broadcast journalism, filmmaking, and psychology. Somy also recalled a personal moment that reflected his humility. During a visit to Mumbai with her mother, their taxi broke down in heavy monsoon rain near his home, Ashirwad. Rajesh Khanna reportedly came running in the rain to invite them into his car, getting completely drenched without any concern, and later casually drying off with a towel. For Somy, this gesture summed up his kindness and grounded nature.Music from his films continues to move her deeply. She listed songs like Kahin Door Jab Din Dhal Jaye, Zindagi Ke Safar Mein, Yeh Shaam Mastani, and Chingari Koi Bhadke as timeless melodies where his emotions felt real and soulful, making every lyric unforgettable.
