Why Does Rekha Still Apply Sindoor 36 Years After Her Husband’s Death?

New Delhi: Veteran actress Rekha has long been a topic of discussion among fans for consistently appearing at events wearing sindoor (vermilion). Rekha continues to observe this traditional practice—typically associated with married Hindu women—even though her husband passed away decades ago. Rekha’s decision to continue wearing sindoor—36 years after her husband’s death—remains one of Bollywood’s greatest mysteries. Let us explore the reasons behind this significant choice of Rekha’s and why she continues to uphold it to this day.

The Significance of Sindoor in Hindu Tradition
In Hindu tradition, sindoor (a red or orange vermilion powder) is applied by married women in the parting of their hair (maang). It is considered a symbol of one’s marital status. During a wedding ceremony, the act of the groom applying sindoor to the bride’s hair parting is a pivotal ritual.

Rekha’s Marriage
Actress Rekha was married to Mukesh Agarwal, a Delhi-based industrialist and TV producer. The couple tied the knot in 1990, but the marriage lasted for a mere seven months. Rekha was in London when Mukesh Agarwal committed suicide.

Why Does Rekha Wear Sindoor?
In June 1982, when Rekha received the National Award for Best Actress for the film Umrao Jaan, the then-President, Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy, asked her, “Why do you wear sindoor in your hair parting?” Rekha replied, “In the city I come from, wearing sindoor is considered fashionable.” This exchange took place before her marriage. However, even after the death of her husband, Mukesh Agarwal, in 1990, Rekha continued to be seen wearing sindoor.

In 2008, Rekha stated, “I am not concerned about people’s reactions. Besides, I feel that sindoor looks good on me… sindoor suits me.”

Does She Share a Good Friendship with Amitabh?
In March 2025, film historian Hanif Zaveri claimed that Rekha—whose name has often been linked with Amitabh Bachchan—still harbors a soft spot for him. Hanif stated, “There is a certain tenderness. If something untoward happens to Amitabh Bachchan, Rekha feels that it shouldn’t have happened. Similarly, if something happens to Rekha, Amitabh, too, feels that it shouldn’t have happened. It is a deep-seated affection.”