From the dizzying heights of fame to quiet shadows behind the arclights, Rajesh Khanna's life had a theatrical sweep, almost like one of his films. Bollywood's original superstar - simply the phenomenon to some - died in Mumbai on Wednesday, leaving behind memories cast in celluloid of that famous crooked smile and head tilt. He was only 69.

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The Rajesh Khanna timeline

From the dizzying heights of fame to quiet shadows behind the arclights, Rajesh Khanna’s life had a theatrical sweep, almost like one of his films. Bollywood’s original superstar – simply the phenomenon to some – died in Mumbai on Wednesday.

Storified by IBNLive · Thu, Jul 19 2012 05:49:34