Rekha turns 70: Iconic ads that captured her grace across the decades

As Rekha celebrates her 70th birthday today, the legendary actress remains a cultural icon who has effortlessly crossed the boundaries of cinema, fashion and advertising. Her ageless beauty, enigmatic charm, and unmatched elegance have made her one of the most sought-after faces in India’s advertising landscape. While she hasn't been a frequent face in ads like her contemporary celebrities, her select appearances carry a certain gravitas.

Lux

One of Rekha’s most memorable associations was with Lux, the soap that famously positioned itself as the "beauty secret of film stars." Rekha’s campaign with Lux epitomized the elegance she carries, and positioned her as a beacon of classic beauty. Her association with the brand was not just a nod to her acting career but to her eternal youthfulness, which remains a core part of her brand even at 70.

Lakmé

Rekha's association with Lakmé happened in the late 1990s, when she emerged as one of the brand's prominent faces, perfectly embodying the elegance and timeless beauty that Lakmé aimed to promote. Rekha’s partnership with Lakmé had been an integral part of her advertising career. Her association with the brand had, back then, helped Lakmé position itself as a leader in the Indian cosmetics market, celebrating the blend of tradition and modernity in beauty.

Mahendra Sarees

Rekha's association with Mahendra Sarees marked a significant chapter in her journey as a fashion icon in Bollywood, renowned for her love of traditional attire. The brand, celebrated for its exquisite Kanjeevaram and silk sarees, frequently featured Rekha in its advertising campaigns, leveraging her elegance and timeless grace. During her appearances draped in their luxurious sarees, she embodied the essence of the modern Indian woman while honoring cultural heritage. Rekha's portrayal in Mahendra's campaigns not only elevated the brand’s image but also reinforced the enduring significance of sarees in Indian fashion. Her legacy with Mahendra Sarees continues to inspire generations to embrace the beauty of traditional Indian wear, solidifying her status as a symbol of elegance.

Gold Spot

Rekha’s association with Gold Spot in the late 1980s and early 1990s is remembered for its vibrant and eye-catching print advertisements that showcased her signature charm and elegance. In these ads, Rekha was often seen enjoying a bottle of Gold Spot, embodying youthful exuberance and celebration, which positioned the drink as the perfect companion for joyful moments. Her glamorous image, combined with the bright and colorful aesthetics of the campaigns, made them stand out during a transformative era in Indian advertising. This collaboration not only elevated Gold Spot's appeal but also reinforced its identity as a refreshing drink for a younger audience, solidifying Rekha's status as a versatile brand ambassador who connected effortlessly with consumers across different domains.

Snickers

Rekha made a notable comeback into the advertising world with her iconic Snickers campaign in 2012, marking a significant evolution in her career as a brand ambassador. In this humorous ad, she portrayed a dramatic character who transformed into a more temperamental version of herself when hungry, effectively conveying the tagline, “You’re not you when you’re hungry.” Rekha's involvement brought a playful and relatable side to her persona, introducing her to a younger audience while maintaining her timeless charm. This campaign not only showcased her versatility beyond traditional film roles but also cleverly aligned her celebrity status with Snickers' message of satisfying hunger, making it a memorable highlight in her advertising career.

Star Plus's ‘Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Mein’ Promo

Rekha made a memorable appearance in the promotional ads for Star Plus's popular television show "Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Mein," where she brought her iconic charm to the forefront. In these ads, she captivated audiences with her grace and elegance, effectively drawing attention to the show's themes of love and relationships. The campaign featured Rekha endorsing the series with the hashtags #GhumHaiKisikeyPyaarMein and #GhumWithRekhaji, emphasizing the emotional depth of the storyline while showcasing her timeless appeal. Her association with the show not only added star power to the promotion but also highlighted Rekha’s ability to connect with diverse audiences, reinforcing her status as a beloved figure in Indian entertainment.

Vogue Arabia

Her appearance on the cover of Vogue may not necessarily be an ad campaign but not mentioning the iconic photoshoot might just be a crime! Rekha graced the cover of Vogue Arabia in September 2021, marking a significant moment in her illustrious career as a fashion icon. The cover featured her in exquisite traditional attire, seamlessly blending her deep-rooted Indian heritage with contemporary fashion elements. This collaboration not only highlighted her timeless beauty and elegance but also showcased her influence beyond Bollywood, celebrating her legacy in the fashion industry. The accompanying editorial spread emphasized Rekha's unique style and her ability to inspire, reaffirming her status as a global fashion icon and reflecting Vogue Arabia's commitment to celebrating diverse beauty and cultural heritage.

Recently seen dancing with her old tune on the IIFA Awards stage, she really proves that she's aging like wine and should probably do more ads.