Bollywood icon Rekha is celebrated for her extraordinary acting skills and enduring fashion sense. However, in a recent interview, actor-director Ranjeet revealed that he encountered difficulties with her during the filming of one of his projects. This situation escalated to the point where he felt compelled to request the return of her signing fee.

In a podcast hosted by Vickey Lalwani, Ranjeet, who gained recognition for his villainous roles in 1970s Bollywood films, expressed his disappointment with the repetitive roles being offered to him by producers. This dissatisfaction motivated him to produce his own films, one of which was intended to feature Rekha.

"I had completely stopped accepting film offers. For a decade, I did not sign any new projects. Although people reached out to me, they soon understood that since I was focused on producing my own film, I was not interested in taking on other people's projects," he stated.

Ranjeet chose Rekha as his film's female lead

In a conversation about his 1990 film Kaarnama, Ranjeet reflected on his amicable relationship with Rekha, which influenced his decision to cast her in the film due to her suitability for the role.

"I had known her since the days of Sawan Bhadon, and we shared a close bond. Whenever I went to work, I often felt frustrated that I was laboring for the producer while they relaxed in an air-conditioned room, leaving us to work under the sun. Therefore, when I hired actors for my film, I wanted to ensure they were compensated fairly rather than feeling obligated to work for free. I officially contracted them and provided payment. Although they sometimes felt shy about it, I insisted on this approach. I signed Rekha at the rate she quoted. Later, I learned that another producer had signed her for ₹5 lakh less, but that did not concern me. I told her that while she was my friend, my decision was based on her fit for the role, and I inquired about her fee and availability."

Ranjeet acknowledged that he was aware of Rekha's reputation for being difficult, but their good rapport allowed him to overlook it, recognizing that everyone has their own working style. "I was aware of Rekha's quirks. Other producers would wait outside her home, but I could simply walk in. She would even visit my house without shoes, which reflected the nature of our relationship."

However, the dynamics began to shift.

"She preferred to shoot during the day, but I explained that I had set aside all my other commitments to make this film for myself, not just for her. I realized I was on the verge of being treated like the other producers waiting at her gate. I told her, 'Rekha, please, I am using my own funds; if this continues, I cannot proceed with you.' She asked if I was certain, and I affirmed my decision. We parted ways amicably."

Why was Rekha throwing tantrums?

Ranjeet was subsequently inquired about Rekha's reasoning, to which he responded, "Initially, she did not have a good relationship with Amitabh Bachchan , but later they became friends. She expressed a desire to remain in Mumbai. I was scheduled to film at a location outside Bombay, and she wanted to return in the evenings. My song was set for the evening, but she preferred to shoot during the day. Additionally, she was not at ease with the dance director, which necessitated a change, leading to my growing frustration with these requests."

Kaarnama was both produced and directed by Ranjeet and featured a cast that included Vinod Khanna, Kimi Katkar, Farha Naaz, Neena Gupta, Paintal, Nirupa Roy, and Amrish Puri.

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