In a 2006 interview, Rekha discussed her relationship with Amitabh Bachchan, emphasizing how deeply significant connections—both romantic and professional—can influence personal development and self-identity. The actress, known for her electrifying on-screen chemistry with Bachchan and rumored to have dated him, revealed that he left a profound impression on her the first time she saw his performance in Parwana, alongside Yogeeta Bali, who supposedly introduced them at Madras airport. She stated in Filmfare, “Whatever I am as an actor, I owe 100 percent to him. I just absorbed everything he had to offer by simply observing him.”

She noted the irony of his unawareness regarding the impact he had on her and others, saying, “Just his presence and spirit contributed to my craft as an actor and my development as a person. He’s like my inner conscience that guides me through life and my performances.”

Rekha also expressed her sense of loss for not being part of his journey, lamenting that they never shared the screen again after Silsila (1981). This underscores how such connections shape not only our emotional landscape but also our understanding of our place within the broader narrative of life. “My loss is that I didn’t get a chance to share in Amitji’s phenomenal growth as an actor. Can you blame me for being excited when his producers asked me to dub for Neetu Singh in Yaaraana, Sridevi in Aakhri Raasta, and the late Soundarya and Jayasudha in Sooryavansham?”

The impact of relationships goes beyond romantic ties. Gurleen Baruah, an organizational psychologist and executive coach at That Culture Thing, tells Indian Express, “Significant personal and professional relationships profoundly shape an individual’s identity and self-perception, often through subtle yet powerful influences.”

Sonal Khangarot, a licensed rehabilitation counselor and psychotherapist at The Answer Room, adds, “The deeper the emotional or intellectual connection, the greater the impact on our identity. Professional relationships, such as mentorship or collaboration, encourage skill-building, enhance our abilities, and foster exploration of new ideas. Over time, our self-perception is influenced by the significance of these relationships and their effects on our lives.”

Emotional bonds can create a sense of belonging, and their disruption may lead to an emotional void. The psychological effects of not sharing key life moments with someone who has been essential in your life can vary depending on the circumstances. Baruah explains that if the absence is due to death, feelings of grief, loss, and longing may emerge, along with deep sorrow for not experiencing important milestones together. This often leads to feelings of regret, nostalgia, and even guilt for not having spent more time together.

Conversely, if the relationship has soured or you’ve simply drifted apart, emotions can shift. Instead of solely grieving, you might grapple with unresolved feelings—regret over how things ended, nostalgia, or contemplation of how the relationship might have evolved differently. This can create an emotional tug-of-war, where one experiences a mix of sadness and frustration over the absence of that person during crucial moments in life.

Baruah explains, “Psychologically, this connects to attachment theory. When emotional bonds are disrupted, they can create an emotional void. People may find themselves reminiscing, replaying memories, or longing for the connection they once shared. While these feelings can be challenging, they are part of how our brain processes the loss of important relationships.”

To maintain a strong sense of self after the end of a pivotal relationship, Khangarot advises focusing on the positives gained from the time invested in the relationship. “Additionally, these lessons can serve as a basis for self-reflection and growth. The end of a relationship doesn’t negate the valuable memories or lessons derived from it; by shifting perspective, individuals can recognize how it has shaped their lives,” she concludes.