Behind the glitz and glamour of Bollywood, many actors endure personal trials that remain hidden from the spotlight. One such star is Reena Roy, a leading actress in the 70s and 80s, whose life took a drastic turn after she married Pakistani cricketer Mohsin Khan. Her story is one of love, heartbreak, resilience, and courage. Now 67 years old, Reena’s life journey is as captivating as her film career, filled with ups and downs that few would expect.
Bollywood Stardom and Early Romance with Shatrughan Sinha
Reena Roy made her Bollywood debut in 1972 and quickly became a sensation. She delivered a string of hits and won over audiences with her charm and talent. However, it wasn’t just her films that made headlines—her romance with actor Shatrughan Sinha also captivated the media. The couple was deeply in love, and their relationship became the talk of the town for seven long years.
Despite the public’s fascination, the relationship ended on a sour note. Shatrughan Sinha reportedly married Poonam Sinha without informing Reena, leaving her heartbroken. This abrupt end to their love story marked a turning point in her life.
Marriage to Mohsin Khan and Life in Pakistan
Shortly after her breakup with Shatrughan, Reena met Mohsin Khan, a Pakistani cricketer, and the two began dating. In 1983, Reena made the bold decision to marry Mohsin at the peak of her acting career, leaving behind Bollywood and relocating to Pakistan. The couple had a daughter named Jannat, but marital bliss was short-lived.
According to media reports, Reena struggled to adjust to life in Pakistan and the cultural differences between her and Mohsin. Over time, their marriage began to unravel. Conflicts arose, and Reena faced alleged domestic abuse, which further strained their relationship. By 1990, the couple decided to part ways, leaving Reena in a foreign country without her daughter, as Mohsin Khan retained custody of Jannat.
A Mother’s Battle for Custody
The divorce was just the beginning of Reena’s struggle. Determined to be with her daughter, Reena returned to India and fought for custody. In a surprising twist, her ex-boyfriend Shatrughan Sinha came to her aid during this difficult time, playing a crucial role in her battle for her child.
After a lengthy legal struggle, Reena was granted custody of her daughter. Upon her return to India, she changed her daughter’s name from Jannat to Sanam. Reena, who had once been one of Bollywood’s brightest stars, now faced a new reality—life as a single mother, away from the glamour of the silver screen.
Life After Divorce: Struggles and a New Beginning
Post-divorce, Reena Roy attempted to return to Bollywood. However, her re-entry into the film industry was met with disappointment. Despite her past success, the offers were few, and she struggled to find significant work. Eventually, Reena chose to step away from the limelight entirely and live a more private life.
In the years that followed, Reena focused on rebuilding her life and raising her daughter. Reports suggest that she now runs acting classes in Mumbai alongside Sanam, helping to train aspiring actors and sharing her wealth of industry knowledge.
Legacy of Strength and Resilience
Reena Roy’s life is a powerful testament to resilience. Despite facing betrayal, domestic abuse, and the challenge of starting over after a failed marriage, she never gave up. Her fight for her daughter’s custody and her decision to remain single after her divorce demonstrate her strength and determination. Though her acting career may have faded, her personal journey continues to inspire many.
While Reena may no longer be in the Bollywood spotlight, her legacy as an actress and a mother endures. Her story, filled with trials and triumphs, serves as a reminder that behind every star is a human being, navigating the complexities of life just like everyone else.