Mumbai: Who was the first superstar of Bollywood? As soon as this question is asked, only one name comes to mind-Rajesh Khanna. ‘Kaka’, who ruled millions of hearts with his unmatched acting and unique style in the 60s and 70s, is still alive among the fans. His popularity was such that the definition of stardom changed in that era. But with time, his legacy is now moving forward on the shoulders of the new generation. On Tuesday, April 8, 2025, Rajesh Khanna’s granddaughter Nomika Saran grabbed everyone’s attention by attending a party of Maddock Films in Mumbai with her grandmother Dimple Kapadia.

Nomika Saran’s first step in Bollywood?

Nomika’s presence in this high-profile party of Maddock Films gave rise to many questions. Is she preparing to start her innings in Bollywood? Nomika, who is the daughter of Dimple Kapadia and Rajesh Khanna’s daughter Rinke Saran, appeared with utmost confidence and style on this occasion with her grandmother. Her simplicity and beauty turned the eyes of the people present there. An eyewitness said, “Nomika clearly had the same charming smile of her grandfather and the grace of her grandmother. She became the most talked about topic in the party.” Rajesh Khanna’s legacy Rajesh Khanna’s name is a milestone in Bollywood. The fame he achieved with films like ‘Anand’, ‘Amar Prem’ and ‘Bawarchi’ is still unmatched. Fans fondly called him ‘Kaka’ and there were long queues outside cinema halls to get a glimpse of him. His wife Dimple Kapadia has also been active in the industry for the last several decades. Her presence in recent films like ‘Teri Baatein Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya’ and ‘Pathan’ proved that she still lives in the hearts of the audience. Now the entry of his granddaughter Nomica is indicating that she will take that legacy forward.

What was special in the party?

This party of Maddock Films was organized for its upcoming projects, in which many big names of Bollywood attended. But the pair of Nomica and Dimple stole everyone’s attention. While Dimple radiated elegance in her signature saree, Nomica’s modern look became a symbol of youthful energy. Film critic and writer Rajiv Mishra says, “The shine of stardom is clearly visible in Nomica. If she comes into acting, then Rajesh Khanna’s legacy can get a new identity.”

Welcoming the new generation in Bollywood

Rajesh Khanna’s daughter Twinkle Khanna distanced herself from acting and made a name in writing, but her sister Rinke Saran’s daughter Nomica is now in the headlines. This is not the first time that Nomica has been seen, but her presence on such a big platform has fueled speculation. An industry source, on condition of anonymity, said, “There are talks going on about some projects with Nomika. Her beauty and confidence make her perfect for Bollywood.”

Fans’ expectations

This is an emotional moment for Rajesh Khanna fans. Ramesh Thakur, an old cinema hall manager in Mumbai, says, “Kaka’s films still run in our theatre. If his granddaughter comes on screen, it will be a tribute to him.” Fans also showered a lot of love on Nomika’s pictures on social media. One user wrote, “Nomika has a glimpse of Kaka. Wish she debuts soon!”

What’s the way forward?

There has been no official announcement about Nomika Saran’s Bollywood debut yet, but her presence indicates that she may soon be in the headlines. If Maddock Films, known for hits like ‘Stree’ and ‘Bhediya’, launches Nomika, it could be a great start to her career. The presence of Dimple Kapadia further strengthens this possibility.

Rajesh Khanna’s stardom may be a thing of the past, but that shine seems set to return through his granddaughter Nomika. Will she rule Bollywood like her grandfather? Only time will tell the answer.

(The author is a freelance entertainment journalist. This article is based on facts and eyewitness experiences.)