Zubeidaa (2001)

Zubeidaa, Rekha's second film with Shyam Benegal, was a comeback of sorts.

As the mature and slightly older queen mother, she had a supporting role. Karisma Kapoor played a Muslim girl married to the twice-married Hindu king (Manoj Bajpai). The film revolved around Karisma, but Rekha's performance was graceful and subdued.

Rekha went on to play mature roles like the rebellious social worker in Lajja, the cold stepmother in Dil Hai Tumhara and the spirit medium in Bhoot.

Some of Rekha's personal favourites among her films are Saawan Bhadon, Do Anjaane, Aalap, Muqaddar Ka Sikander, Ghar, Silsila, Umrao Jaan, Khoon Bhari Maang, Ijaazat and Phool Bane Angaarey.