Bhanurekha Ganesan (born 10 October 1954), better known by her stage name Rekha, is an Indian actress who appears predominantly in Hindi films. Acknowledged as one of the finest actresses in Indian cinema. she has starred in more than 180 films and is the recipient of several accolades, including one National Film Award and three Filmfare Awards.  She has often played strong and complicated female characters—from  fictional to literary—in both mainstream and independent films. Though  her career has gone through certain periods of decline, Rekha has gained  a reputation for reinventing herself numerous times and has been  credited for her ability to sustain her status. In 2010, the Government of India honoured her with Padma Shri, India's fourth highest civilian honour.