Late Rajesh Khanna gets Padma Bhushan

New Delhi, Jan 25 (IANS) 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.