Bollywood –  Veteran actor and dancer Kalpana Iyer has shared heartfelt memories of working with the late Vinod Khanna, offering a glimpse into the personality of one of Hindi cinema’s most admired stars.

Kalpana, widely remembered for her screen presence in the 1980s, recently reflected on her experience of working alongside Vinod Khanna in the 1981 film “Kudrat.” Speaking about the actor, she described him as someone whose charm extended far beyond the camera.

Remembering a Gentle Star

When asked how she would describe Vinod Khanna, Kalpana did not hesitate. In her words, he was “an absolute gem.” She recalled that his conduct on set left a lasting impression on everyone who interacted with him.

According to Kalpana, Vinod Khanna carried himself with rare elegance. His walk, she said, was instantly recognizable and reflected a quiet confidence. “Whenever he walked into a room, people naturally looked up,” she noted, emphasizing that his presence commanded attention without any effort.

She explained that what truly distinguished him was not just his screen persona, but his consistent courtesy in real life. “He was always polite and soft-spoken. I never saw him lose his temper or behave harshly with anyone,” she said.

A Personal Bond Beyond the Camera

Kalpana revealed that her association with Vinod Khanna was not limited to their professional collaboration. Over the years, she had several opportunities to meet him outside work, and those interactions strengthened her admiration for him.

Though they were not in constant touch, she remembered every meeting as warm and respectful. She described him as someone with strong personal values, adding that such qualities are rare in the entertainment industry.

For Kalpana, memories of Vinod Khanna remain deeply cherished. She said that when she thinks of him, she remembers a refined, dignified individual whose smile and mannerisms reflected genuine kindness.

A Legacy Carried Forward

During the conversation, Kalpana also mentioned Vinod Khanna’s son, Akshaye Khanna. She expressed happiness in seeing a resemblance between father and son, especially in their smiles. According to her, Akshaye appears to have inherited the same calm and understated charm that once defined his father’s public image.

Vinod Khanna, who enjoyed a long and successful career in Hindi cinema, continues to be remembered for both his performances and his personality. Colleagues often speak about his professionalism and disciplined approach to his craft.

Revisiting the Film “Kudrat”

The 1981 drama “Kudrat” was directed by Chetan Anand and featured an ensemble cast that included Rajesh Khanna, Hema Malini, Raaj Kumar, and Priya Rajvansh, along with Vinod Khanna and Kalpana Iyer. The film blended romance, mystery, and elements of reincarnation, making it a notable project of its time.

Produced under the banners of Mehboob Studios and R. K. Studios, the film was further elevated by its music. The soundtrack was composed by R. D. Burman, whose melodies added emotional depth to the narrative. Even decades later, the film is remembered for its performances and memorable songs.

For Kalpana, revisiting “Kudrat” is not just about recalling a film but about remembering the people who shaped that chapter of her life. Her reflections offer insight into a period when professionalism, grace, and personal values were often highlighted as defining traits of leading actors.

As tributes to iconic figures of Indian cinema continue to surface, voices like Kalpana Iyer’s provide a personal dimension to public memory. Her recollections underline that Vinod Khanna’s legacy is rooted not only in his body of work but also in the respect and affection he earned from colleagues across generations.