Veteran actor Shabana Azmi recently shared a striking anecdote about Rekha’s "star persona" during an interview with Filmfare. Recalling a flight they took together, Shabana described how a fan politely approached Rekha for an autograph. What happened next left Shabana stunned.

“Rekha's entire demeanor changed,” Shabana said, “From chatting and laughing with me, she instantly transformed into a distant, poised star.” Rekha calmly responded to the fan, saying, “I am talking, can you wait a bit?” Shabana, impressed, admitted, “I thought, ‘Aisa behave karna chahiye star ko' - this is how a star should behave!”

Though Rekha has been absent from the silver screen since her 2014 film Super Nani, her legacy and mystique endure. Meanwhile, Shabana continues to shine with projects like Dabba Cartel and the upcoming Lahore 1947.

Their encounter offers a rare glimpse into the nuances of stardom- both graceful and commanding.