BIRTHDAY SPECIAL TO CELEBRATE HINDI CINEMA’S STUNNING LEADING LADY
by ASJAD NAZIR
LEGENDARY actress Rekha turns a year older this month and celebrates her 66th birthday on October 10.
Having started her career at the age of four in 1958 Telugu film Inti Guttu, she has been connected to acting for over 60 years and become an Indian cinema icon. She battled through challenges, including having to learn Hindi, a rollercoaster personal life and a male dominated domain, to make a permanent mark in films. To celebrate the timeless star turning a year older, Eastern Eye looked back through her huge body of work to select 12 magical performances.
Operation Jackpot Nalli C.I.D 999 (1969): After working in Telugu cinema as a child actor, Rekha made her debut as a leading lady in this Kannada language spy-thriller, inspired by James Bond. It was the third part of a trilogy and its success led to a fourth instalment. Despite being just 15 years old, Rekha showed remarkable screen presence and started her journey as a star.
Sawan Bhadon (1970): Rekha made her Bollywood debut in this big success and despite being just a teenager, took on the challenging role of a feisty village girl. She starred opposite fellow debutante Navin Nischol in a movie that helped put her on the radar of many Bollywood producers, which would result in her averaging at least 10 movies a year in the decade that followed.
Ghar (1978): The in-demand actress appeared in a wide array of movies during the seventies, including commercial blockbusters like Dharmatma (1975) and Khoon Pasina (1977), but earned her first Filmfare Best Actress award nomination with this harrowing drama. She delivers a powerhouse performance in the story of a couple dealing with the aftermath of a brutal gang rape.
Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978): The strikingly beautiful actress made the courtesan character her own in a string of successful films, which includes this highest grossing Bollywood release of 1978. She plays a key-role inspired by classic literary character Chandramukhi (from Devdas) and earned a Filmfare Best Supporting Actress nomination.
Judaai (1980): Rekha plays a multilayered character in this emotion-filled drama opposite Jeetendra and is once again the trigger point in the plot. She would earn a Filmfare Best Actress award nomination, but was beaten in the same year by herself for her performance in another film Khoobsoorat.
Khubsoorat (1981): The comedy-drama won a Filmfare Best Film award and also earned Rekha her first Filmfare Best Actress trophy. She plays a spirited young woman who melts a cold uptight family and has a positive effect on them. The Hrishikesh Mukherjee-directed film would successfully be remade in 2014 with Sonam Kapoor, but she couldn’t match Rekha’s flair.
Silsila (1981): Rekha had starred in a string of successful films opposite Amitabh Bachchan, including Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978), Mr Natwarlal (1979), Suhaag (1979) and Ram Balram (1980). Their final film together was this iconic love triangle, which mirrored real life and raised eyebrows when it released. She holds her own in a challenging film with powerful characters.
Umrao Jaan (1981): The career-defining role for Rekha saw her play Indian literature’s greatest courtesan and in the process won a well-deserved National Award. After playing a courtesan previously in films, she took the role to a whole new level and the result is a timeless classic seen as an all-time great film regularly ranked in Bollywood’s top 100.
Mujhe Insaaf Chahiye (1983): The greatness of Rekha was perhaps that she could carry a film as a lead or could add another dimension in a supporting role, as she did in this taboo-busting drama. She plays a lawyer trying to get a woman justice and breathes fire into each of her scenes. Rekha would get another Filmfare Best Supporting Actress award nomination for this film.
Khoon Bhari Maang (1988): While other screen sirens from the seventies retired, Rekha continued to power on into the 1980s with lead roles in major movies and in many like this one, she was the hero. The Indian adaptation of Australian mini-series Return To Eden saw her play a widow who remarries, is almost killed by her second husband and sets out for revenge. She goes through a physical and emotional transformation in the hit movie, which earned her a Filmfare Best Actress award.
Phool Bane Angaray (1991): One of Rekha’s last great roles as a leading lady was another powerful story with her at the heart of the action. The action-drama saw her play a courageous woman who joins the police force to avenge her husband’s death, who was a crusading cop. She delivers another impactful performance, which once again saw her go on a transformative journey.
Koi Mil Gaya (2003): During the 1990s, Rekha transitioned with ease into more character-driven roles and then in the early 2000s started playing the mother. By far her best was in this sci-fi drama where she plays a devoted single mother to a mentally disabled son, whose life is transformed when he meets an alien. Although the game-changing film is about an alien and has an incredible performance from Hrithik Roshan, Rekha adds weight to the movie, like she did for so many before.
We at Eastern Eye raise a glass to the 66-year-old siren and thank her for all the great memories.
Morgan Riddle is an influencer and media personality with over 1 million followers.
She is known for popularising tennis among younger audiences.
Riddle and Fritz met on the dating app Raya in 2020.
She regularly travels with Fritz on tour and featured in Netflix’s Break Point.
Riddle has collaborated with Wimbledon and launched tennis-themed products.
Morgan Riddle, often referred to as Taylor Fritz’s girlfriend, has become a recognised figure in the tennis world, thanks to her growing media presence and efforts to modernise the sport’s image. As Fritz continues to climb the ATP rankings, currently sitting at World No. 5, Riddle is frequently seen supporting him courtside, including at the 2025 Wimbledon Championships in London.
A social media influencer with a tennis mission
Riddle has built a career as a full-time influencer and media personality, gaining popularity on Instagram and TikTok for her lifestyle, fashion and behind-the-scenes tennis content. Her viral videos, including one that aimed to “make tennis cool again,” have drawn both praise and criticism.
In the now-famous clip, Riddle explained how tennis works, described the annual tournament schedule, and spoke about her life travelling with Fritz. While some fans were critical, Fritz publicly supported her efforts, saying: “I 100 percent agree with everything in that video. I think what she did was awesome for our sport.”
A strong relationship in the spotlight
The couple met on the members-only dating app Raya during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. At the time, Riddle had just relocated to Los Angeles. Their first date involved takeout sushi and a horror film at home — a setting dictated by the lockdown restrictions of the time.
Riddle is frequently seen supporting him courtside, including at the 2025 WimbledonGetty Images
Despite busy schedules and constant travel, the couple have been together since 2020 and celebrated their three-year anniversary in June 2023. Riddle has said that maintaining their relationship takes teamwork and understanding, especially as they spend over 30 weeks a year on the road.
“We travel so well together,” she told PEOPLE magazine. “Both of us are very focused on what we’re doing… we’re very much immersed in each other, but also have our own things going on.”
From Minnesota to the global tennis stage
Riddle was raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in a hockey-loving household. Tennis was never part of her upbringing — in fact, she has joked about being “not athletic at all” and more involved in theatre and debate.
After studying English Language and Literature at Wagner College in New York, she entered the real estate sector before shifting to media and influencer marketing. She has since worked with outlets like the Food Network and Hollywire before committing full-time to content creation.
She has also worked as a model and in 2023 launched a tennis-themed jewellery line in collaboration with Lottie NYC.
Working with Wimbledon and growing tennis’ appeal
Riddle’s growing status within the sport led to a collaboration with Wimbledon in 2023, where she hosted a video series called Wimbledon Threads, interviewing fans about their fashion choices. She called the project a “huge” opportunity for being taken more seriously in the tennis world.
She has also used her platform to promote the sport among younger audiencesGetty Images
“To be recognised by a tournament of that prestige is just a big win for me,” she said. “That’s something that I’ve struggled with — especially with the older, more traditional tennis fan base.”
She has also used her platform to promote the sport among younger audiences, often sharing her travels to tournaments like the Laver Cup and the Nitto ATP Finals with her followers.
On screen and in the press
Riddle and Fritz both appeared in Netflix’s Break Point, the docuseries exploring professional tennis behind the scenes. Filmed by the creators of Formula 1: Drive to Survive, the show featured their journey and offered fans a glimpse into life on tour.
In August 2023, The New York Times profiled Riddle in an article titled The Most Famous Woman in Men’s Tennis, highlighting her unique position in the sport. She spoke about the pressures of public scrutiny, saying: “If his ranking had gone down, they’d say it’s my fault. The only time I really get nervous is when I see him getting nervous.”
Taylor Fritz's girlfriend continues to grow her profile
Morgan Riddle is an influencer and media personality with over 1 million followersGetty Images
As Taylor Fritz continues to perform at the highest level in men’s tennis, Morgan Riddle has carved out her own space within the sport. With a growing audience, strategic brand partnerships, and a shared goal of modernising tennis, she remains an influential figure in her own right, both on and off the court.
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The Met Office and UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have issued amber heat-health alerts
Amber heat-health alerts issued as temperatures approach 35°C in parts of the UK.
Early signs of heat stroke include confusion, slurred speech, and dizziness.
Heat exhaustion can develop into heat stroke if not treated within 30 minutes.
At-risk groups include the elderly, young children, and those with health conditions.
NHS and health experts urge people to stay hydrated, cool, and avoid midday sun.
Medical experts are urging the public to remain alert for the early signs of heat stroke, as temperatures across parts of England are expected to reach up to 35°C. The Met Office and UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have issued amber heat-health alerts, warning that extreme heat can have serious health impacts. Doctors stress that symptoms can begin subtly, making early intervention crucial.
Heat alerts across multiple regions
Amber-level warnings are in effect for the West Midlands, East Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber, South East, South West, London, and the East of England.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: “The temperatures we are likely to see over the next few days can result in serious health outcomes across the population.” He urged the public to take “sensible precautions while enjoying the sun”, and to look out for vulnerable individuals.
Recognising the early signs of heat stroke
Dr Javier Mateos Delgado, an emergency unit coordinator and expert in Family and Community Medicine, warned that heat stroke can begin with subtle neurological symptoms. These are often mistaken for tiredness or minor illness, delaying proper treatment.
According to Dr Delgado, early signs may include:
Slurred or incoherent speech
Irritability or mood changes
Disorientation or confusion
Loss of balance or blurred vision
He also noted that muscle cramps, especially at night or after exertion, despite drinking water, are a key warning sign. “The first symptoms are usually a feeling of intense heat, dizziness, and weakness,” he said. “You have to learn to listen to your body.”
When heat exhaustion becomes heat stroke
According to NHS guidance, heat exhaustion can be treated at home if the person is cooled down within 30 minutes. Signs include:
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Headache
Sweating heavily
Weakness and tiredness
Muscle cramps
Fast breathing
Feeling very thirsty
However, if symptoms don’t improve within half an hour or worsen, it could indicate heat stroke, a life-threatening emergency.
Call 999 immediately if someone shows signs of heat stroke, which include:
Hot, dry skin that isn’t sweating
A high body temperature and flushed appearance
Rapid heartbeat
Confusion or unusual behaviour
Seizures
Loss of consciousness
While waiting for emergency services, move the person to a shaded or cool area, give them fluids if possible, and use water or cold items to help reduce their body temperature, especially on the neck and underarms.
Heat stroke prevention: What to do
Dr Mateos Delgado emphasised that prevention is often overlooked. “The problem is not usually that we don't know what to do,” he said, “but that we don't do it.”
To prevent heat stroke, experts recommend:
Avoiding strenuous activity during peak sunlight hours (11 am to 3 pm)
Staying indoors or in shaded areas during the hottest part of the day
Drinking water regularly—even if not thirsty
Wearing light, loose-fitting clothing
Using fans or keeping rooms cool by closing blinds and windows
Wearing sunglasses and sun hats, and applying sunscreen
Checking on friends, relatives, and neighbours, especially those at higher risk
Who is most at risk of heat stroke?
While anyone can be affected, certain groups are especially vulnerable to heat stroke. These include:
People over 65 or under 5 years old
Those with chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, or dementia
People on medications that affect sweating or body temperature
Those experiencing mental health challenges or substance misuse
People living alone, outdoors, or in poor housing conditions
Outdoor workers, including construction or farm labourers
Health officials urge everyone to take extra care over the coming days, as the UK experiences potentially record-breaking temperatures.
Understanding the signs and symptoms of heat stroke and acting quickly could help save lives during the ongoing heatwave.
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The controversy surrounding the ketchup ban caught the attention of British condiment company Condimaniac
Jeremy Clarkson’s Farmer’s Dog pub banned non-British products, including ketchup and Coca-Cola.
The rule sparked months of backlash from customers who called it “weird”.
British condiment company Condimaniac developed a 100% British-sourced ketchup in response.
The new ketchup will be stocked at the pub, but only in full bottles for purchase.
Some visitors remain critical as the condiment isn’t yet available for table use.
Jeremy Clarkson’s strict British-only policy at his Farmer’s Dog pub has caused considerable controversy since its launch, particularly due to the absence of staple condiments like ketchup. However, a recent development by a British condiment company could finally offer a compromise. The pub will now stock a fully British-sourced ketchup developed in response to the ban, although it will only be available to buy in bottles rather than offered with meals.
Clarkson's British-only policy sparked backlash
When Jeremy Clarkson opened the Farmer’s Dog pub in the Cotswolds, featured on the Amazon Prime series Clarkson’s Farm, he introduced a strict rule: the pub would serve only 100% British food and drink. This ethos was designed to promote local sourcing and support British farming and production.
However, the rule had unintended consequences. Items such as ketchup, Coca-Cola, black pepper and coffee were excluded from the menu, as they could not be sourced entirely from within the UK. Clarkson said that sourcing black pepper domestically would cost “ten times more” than importing it.
The absence of these everyday items quickly drew criticism, with customers describing the rule as “weird” and impractical. Pub-goers were left without familiar condiments for their meals, leading to frustration and widespread backlash on social media.
Condimaniac creates British ketchup
The controversy surrounding the ketchup ban caught the attention of British condiment company Condimaniac. Founded in 2019, the business decided to take on the challenge of creating a truly British ketchup.
In May, after seeing a sign at the Farmer’s Dog banning ketchup, Condimaniac co-founders Kier Kemp and Jennifer Dreier posted about their mission on TikTok. The goal was to develop a ketchup using only British-grown ingredients, adhering to Clarkson’s strict standards.
Their efforts paid off. Earlier this month, the company announced that they had successfully produced a 100% British-sourced ketchup and that the Farmer’s Dog pub had agreed to stock it. The team visited the pub and said staff responded positively to the product.
Kemp praised the pub's staff, saying: “It is not just a gimmick for them – they do really live and breathe this 100% British thing. Everyone I have met is super lovely. I’m glad that I can report they are actually nice people. It is not always like that.”
Still not available for table use
While the ketchup will be sold at the Farmer’s Dog, it will only be available in whole bottles for purchase, either from the pub itself or the associated shop. This detail has sparked a fresh wave of criticism from some visitors, particularly on TikTok.
One commenter said: “I thought the whole point was so people can have some with their meal, not have to buy a bottle.” Another added: “Well done! Bit sh*t that guests have to buy a whole bottle if they want ketchup in their breakfast sandwich though.”
Supporters of the pub pointed out that the product is still in its early stages, and offering it on tables would not yet be financially viable until it can be produced at scale.
Despite the limitations, the move marks a softening of the original no-ketchup stance, and Clarkson’s supporters hope it could lead to further flexibility.
The Farmer’s Dog remains divisive
This isn’t the first time Clarkson’s pub has made headlines. Previous controversies include a customer being banned for calling the pub overpriced and a strict one-hour dining limit per table.
Still, for fans of Clarkson and local sourcing, the Farmer’s Dog represents a firm stand for British produce, even if it comes with fewer condiments on the side.
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The Turkey wildfires have not been limited to Izmir
Tourists stranded after Foça wildfire halts flights at Izmir airport
At least 550 people evacuated from homes in the region
Over 600 personnel deployed to contain the blaze
Strong winds and heat raise risk of further fires
Wildfires force airport shutdown in Turkish holiday hotspot
Hundreds of UK tourists, including several from Glasgow, have been left stranded after major wildfires swept through a popular holiday destination in western Turkey, forcing the closure of Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport.
The blaze broke out in the resort town of Foça, near Izmir, and was rapidly intensified by strong winds, prompting large-scale evacuations and flight disruptions. All operations at the airport were suspended from 4 pm local time due to ongoing extinguishing efforts, with multiple flights reportedly diverted.
More than 550 residents were evacuated from 175 homes in the Ilıpınar district, while emergency crews battled the fire for over 22 hours. The extensive response included 625 personnel, 46 fire engines, six helicopters, nine bulldozers and 13 water tankers.
Dramatic footage showed aircraft dropping water over the blaze in an effort to slow its spread. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire.
Süleyman Elban, Governor of Izmir Province, has urged residents and visitors to remain cautious, citing the combination of high temperatures and low humidity as factors that could lead to additional fires.
The Turkey wildfires have not been limited to Izmir. Blazes have also been reported this week in Kahramanmaraş, Bursa, Sakarya, Bilecik, Gaziantep, Bolu and Manisa, putting regional emergency services under sustained pressure.
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Glutathione and anti ageing drugs under spotlight after Shefali Jariwala death
Shefali Jariwala died at 42 in Mumbai after reportedly collapsing post-fast; cause of death suspected to be cardiac arrest or blood pressure drop.
Police found anti-ageing pills, vitamin supplements, and glutathione injections at her residence.
Doctors stress the risks of unsupervised use of hormone-based and anti-ageing treatments.
Final post-mortem report expected in two days; no foul play suspected, case treated as accidental death.
The untimely death of actor-model Shefali Jariwala has sparked renewed concern over the unregulated use of anti-ageing treatments and self-medication. The 42-year-old, best known for her appearance in Kaanta Laga, was declared dead on arrival at a Mumbai hospital on Friday night. Initial investigations suggest she may have suffered a cardiac arrest following a steep drop in blood pressure, possibly linked to taking supplements on an empty stomach.
Shefali Jariwala death raises concern over anti ageing drugs and self medication Instagram/shefalijariwala
What caused Shefali Jariwala’s collapse? Police and doctors investigate
Shefali Jariwala was rushed to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital by her husband and friends after she suddenly collapsed at home, but she was already unresponsive. Her family said she had been fasting for a religious ritual and had consumed her regular supplements shortly after breaking the fast. Among the substances recovered at her Andheri apartment were glutathione injections, commonly used for skin lightening, and various anti-ageing tablets.
Doctors at Cooper Hospital, where her post-mortem was conducted, suspect a fatal drop in blood pressure, though only the final autopsy will confirm the precise cause of death. So far, Mumbai Police have ruled out foul play and registered an accidental death report.
Health experts warn against unmonitored anti-ageing therapies
Experts are now urging caution over the growing trend of unsupervised beauty and anti-ageing regimens, especially among public figures. Dr Dhirendra Singhania, a leading cardiologist, pointed to steroids, hormone therapies, and poor sleep as major heart risk factors, even among seemingly fit individuals. While glutathione and vitamin C aren’t inherently dangerous, he said their misuse or interaction with other drugs can trigger complications.
Anti ageing pills found at Shefali Jariwala home spark health safety debate Instagram/shefalijariwala
Shefali had no known chronic illnesses apart from epilepsy, which doctors say is unlikely to be linked to her sudden collapse. Her death, while still under investigation, adds to growing concerns about beauty pressures, self-prescribed treatments, and the long-term risks of trying to defy ageing without medical oversight.