Late Rajesh Khanna gets Padma Bhushan

New Delhi: Rajesh Khanna, the first superstar of Indian cinema, has been posthomously named for the Padma Bhushan, the country`s third highest civilian honour on the eve of Republic Day.

Rajesh Khanna, fondly known as Kaka in the film faternity, began his career with "Aakhri Khat" in 1966 and in a career spanning five decades, he became a superstar like no other with hits like "Aradhana", "Do Raaste", "Safar" and "Anand". Between "Aradhana" in 1969 and "Prem Kahani" in 1975, he enjoyed god-like status. The frenzy was such that women would line the road for a glimpse, chant his name, cover his car with lipstick marks and even write him letters in blood. He passed away in July last year following prolonged illness. He was 69. IANS