Why Shatrughan Sinha’s Birthday Wish For Reena Roy Brought Back Old Memories

A look back at Bollywood’s most talked-about love triangle involving Shatrughan Sinha, Poonam Sinha and Reena Roy. Love triangles in Bollywood have always been one of the most talked-about topics in B-town.

Recently, Shatrughan Sinha’s birthday wish for Reena Roy once again brought their past into public discussion. According to the Indian Express, Shatrughan Sinha met Poonam for the first time in 1965 during a two-day train journey from Patna to Mumbai. He was on his way to FTII, while Poonam was still in school. That chance meeting slowly turned into a long courtship that lasted over a decade, even as Sinha struggled to find his footing in films.

As Shatrughan’s career gained momentum in the early 1970s, fame brought attention and multiple relationships. During this phase, he grew close to actor Reena Roy, his most successful on-screen partner. Their chemistry was hugely popular, and their off-screen relationship became a regular subject of tabloid headlines.

The Breakup And Emotional Distance From Poonam

In 1973, Shatrughan broke up with Poonam, saying she was “too good” for him. Despite being deeply attached, he felt unworthy of her dedication. Poonam stepped away from a promising career, and the two remained apart for three years.

Reena Roy And The Wedding Dilemma

Even after deciding to marry Poonam, Shatrughan continued his relationship with Reena Roy. Just two days before his wedding, he was in London with Reena for a stage show. In a dramatic moment, Reena herself drove him to the airport so he could return to Mumbai for his wedding. Shatrughan later admitted he wanted to back out till the last moment.

‘I Didn’t Want To Cheat’

After marriage, Shatrughan confessed that he was still emotionally involved with Reena. He explained that it was not about betrayal, but about the difficulty of ending a deep emotional bond. The situation caused intense guilt and mental stress for all three involved.

Looking Back With Honesty And Respect

Years later, Shatrughan openly admitted his mistakes and credited Poonam for helping him grow. Recently, his heartfelt birthday wish for Reena Roy, calling her a “dear friend,” once again brought their past into focus.

Loving birthday wishes for a very dear friend, one of the best actresses ever, ever charming star, a great human being, wonderful personality in totality #ReenaRoy. May you stay abundantly blessed always. #BirthdayWishes pic.twitter.com/EjhjhxwWIe

— Shatrughan Sinha (@ShatruganSinha) January 7, 2026

Today, Shatrughan and Poonam Sinha remain married and are parents to Luv, Kush and Sonakshi Sinha, marking closure to one of Bollywood’s most discussed love stories.