Jeetendra recalls how Rajesh Khanna helped him prepare for his first screen test, in Mumbai

From the archive record

Veteran actor Jeetendra shares memories of his early days in the film industry and his friendship with Rajesh Khanna. He recalls that their families knew each other and lived in neighboring areas of Mumbai. Jeetendra explains how he was unexpectedly called for a screen test by legendary filmmaker V. Shantaram while working as a junior artist in the film Sehra. Unfamiliar with the process, he sought guidance from Rajesh Khanna, who was active in stage performances at the time. Khanna spent hours coaching him on dialogue delivery and screen presence. The interview offers a glimpse into the beginnings of two future stars of Hindi cinema. Veteran actor Jeetendra speaks about his early days and debut in the Bollywood industry: "Rajesh Khanna and I lived in the same area. He lived in Thakurdwar,