zeenat aman ki biography

Zeenat Aman

IMDbPro Starmeter See rank

• Contact info
• 9 wins & 2 nominations

• Jasbir Jaiswal

• Sandhya Chawla
• Gurbachan Singh
• TV Mini Series
• Sitara Jaan
• In Production

• Sakina Begum

• Aryan's Mother

• Durga Putri

• Mary Disa in Special Appearance

• In-development projects at IMDbPro

Personal details

• Smt. Zeenat Aman
• 5′ 6¼″ (1.68 m)
• November 19 , 1951
• Bombay, State of Bombay, India
• Spouses Mazhar Khan October 11, 1985 - September 16, 1998 (his death, 2 children)
• Children Zahaan Khan
• Other works Alphabets with Zeenat Aman and Bashir. An audio tape of poems, alphabets and songs for Children.

Did you know

• Trivia Zeenat, along with Hema Malini, was the highest paid Hindi actress from 1976-80 and the 2nd highest paid actress, along with Hema Malini, from 1981-84 and the 3rd, along with Hema Malini, from 1973-1975.
• Quotes Love is a spring in the air and an extra spring in bed
• Trademarks Seductive deep voice
• Zeenie Babs
• How old is Zeenat Aman?
• When was Zeenat Aman born?
• Where was Zeenat Aman born?

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Zeenat Aman: The bold and the beautiful muse of Bollywood

Zeenat aman portrayed those characters which were not only out of the box but something which the other actresses of her time never dared to take up..

Museum of Art & Photography

Film poster for 'Roti Kapada Aur Makaan' by C Mohan (artist) Museum of Art & Photography

Bollywood’s tryst with women-centric and feminist films alongwith the hankering for true and realistic depiction of characters, has become all the more important in our cinema. Bollywood has always come of age and broken the stereotypes of our society, with its content, whenever it could. This would, however, never have been possible for the story-tellers without the relentless vehemence of some of the female actors of the time because it was them who realized the essence of a strong female persona on the screen.

Photographic film still featuring Zeenat Aman (Unknown, circa late 20th Century) by Unknown Museum of Art & Photography

"अगर इच्छा में बल हो तोह वह आज़ाद होती है... और शक्ति भी आज़ादी से आती है, बंदिश से नहीं"

[If your desires are strong then they are free... and even strength comes from freedom and not from restriction] - Zeenat Aman in the film 'Ishk Ishk Ishk' (1974)

The exuberance of progressive female characters in Indian cinema can be credited to a long list of actresses. But, it is certainly the aura of the greatest seductress and the ultimate muse of Bollywood - Zeenat Aman, that will perhaps be regarded amongst the best. Her effect on cinema is so phenomenal that she today is regarded to be one of the many actresses who revolutionized the portrayal of Indian women in Bollywood.

Film poster for 'Qurbani' by Narayan (Possible Artist) Museum of Art & Photography

Zeenat Aman ruled the silver screen, like she is the muse of Bollywood, for almost two decades. She portrayed those characters which were not only out of the box but something which the other actresses never dared to take up. Her name was enough to evoke desire and inklings, amongst her male and female followers alike. Zeenat chose to break the stereotype.

Instead of portraying the image of a doting wife, a loving daughter or a selfless sister, Zeenat represented those characters which were the independent, opinionated individual of a rational society.

Film poster for 'Laawaris' by Unknown Museum of Art & Photography

Born of an Anglo Indian mother and a father of Afghan descent, Zeenat took the nom de plume of her writer father 'Aman'. Thanks to her upbringing, Zeenat was both well read and well dressed and soon landed up an internship with a fashion house in Mumbai. Finally, in 1970, she kick-started her career in the glamour world with immense success. Not only had she won the Femina Miss India pageant but also had been victorious at the Miss Asia Pacific International, all at the age of 19.

Owing to her astonishingly fresh looks, she first bagged an ad campaign and then a film role in Hungama (1971). Unfortunately, the film tanked without much mention. Perhaps, Zeenat was set for a grander start.

Lobby card produced for Hindi thriller, 'Chhailla Babu' (1977) by Unknown Museum of Art & Photography

Dev Anand offered Zaheeda, the lead of Prem Pujari (1970) to play a secondary role in Hare Rama Hare Krishna (1971). Zaheeda wanted the lead and did not agree to his offer. So, Dev Anand was looking around for an exotic beauty for Zaheeda’s replacement. And, Zeenat was the best option available. Dev Anand set his eyes on Zeenat Aman and she was instantaneously chosen as a last-minute replacement in the Dev Anand classic. The rest is history, thanks to the cult classic Dum Maro Dum , by RD Burman which placed Janice (Zeenat) in the youthful hearts of our nation at the time.

Film poster for 'Dharamveer' by J.P. Printers, New Delhi (printer) Museum of Art & Photography

Zeenat’s impressive performance made her win both the Best Supporting Actress Award and the Bengal Film Journalists’ Association Awards (BFJA) award. Hare Rama Hare Krishna went on to become her first big break. The chemistry between Dev Anand and Zeenat Aman clicked so well that she was signed for seven films, and four out of them turned to be blockbusters. Her charisma continued to overwhelm the audience with songs like Chura liya hai tumne jo dil ko in the movie Yaadon Ki Baarat (1973). Zeenat’s bewitching qualities and Asha Bhonsle’s melodious voice concocted an intoxicating frenzy for the entire nation. Once, she had a taste of her success she went onto take bolder roles.

With Raj Kapoor’s Satyam Shivam Sundaram (1978), she and her director both shot to criticisms. But, Zeenat’s story is a classic tale of defying the odds and coming out victorious like a princess. So even though Raj Kapoor's Satyam Shivam Sundaram did not do well at the theatres, it got her the Best actress Filmfare nomination, for her unorthodox choice for a role. Furthermore, she was lapped upon with appreciation for her bold performance in the kissing scene with the lead in the film.

"दिल के टूटने की आवाज़ नही होती ...मगर उससे ज़लज़ले आ जाते है, आसमान फॅट जाते है, दुनिया तबाह हो जाती है"

[When a heart breaks there is no sound ... but with that earthquakes come, the sky tears apart, the world gets destroyed] - Zeenat Aman in the film 'Satyam Shivam Sundaram' (1978)

Zeenat was now more popular as the bombshell and the classic femme fatale of Bollywood. So she experimented with her image to another level altogether.

Film poster for 'Don' by Unknown Museum of Art & Photography

In Don (1978), she was depicting the ultimate seductress coupled with the thirst for revenge. Her character was westernized at the core, she had now transformed into an action heroine, a kind of a character which many female actors of her time, would follow and perfect forever thereafter. Her love for the roles and the process of film-making was unadulterated, one of the instances is this film itself. She apparently did not even ask for her remuneration for her part in the film. It was her noble gesture to help out Nariman Irani, who died filming it.

From Dharam Veer (1977), Chhailla Babu (1977) and The Great Gambler (1979), Zeenat became the synonym of success in Bollywood. She was successful both in the conventional space as well as the richer and complex character scapes.

Zeenat was representing the avant-garde woman of India, who is not the very breed of typical, righteous, run-of-the-mill lovers or wives. It is interesting that her choice of roles had a high range of complexities and shades despite their social standings being outrightly questionable to some.

Zeenat let her role of the independent young woman capitalize upon the narrative of the story. She would turn into an absolute gold digger by dumping a poor lover to pursue a rich magnate in Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974), or she could just contemplate an abortion at the cost of her career in Ajnabee (1974).

Film poster for 'Professor Pyarelal' by Perfect Printers (printer) Museum of Art & Photography

She can even turn out to be the hippie singing Hare Krishna Hare Ram and yet, she could be the girl who falls in love with her mother’s lover in Prem Shastra (1974). And that is not all, she can even turn out to be outrageously brave enough to be in an extramarital relationship, despite being married to a physically challenged person in Dhund (1973). Zeenat became the epitome of versatility, every single time she came on screen.

Zeenat’s influence transpired beyond the reel to the real as well. She actually began a new trend in the industry by launching the careers of many male actors. This was not only unlikely but also unthinkable of most Indian actresses at the time. Be it the unknown Raj Babbar, Deepak Prashar or even Tariq Ali, Zeenat had never shied away to explore the unknown.

From Insaf Ka Tarazu (1980) with Raj Babbar and Deepak Prashar, to Kanwaljeet Singh in Ashanti (1982) and Tariq Ali in Hum Kissi Se Kum Nahin (1977) and Yaadon Ki Baarat (1973), Zeenat had always been daring enough to face the challenge of sharing the screen with a lesser known actor. The fear of failure never bothered her so much.

"अधूरे सपने चूबते बहुत है ...बहुत तीखी होती है उनकी चुबन"

[Incomplete dreams prick a lot ... their pricking hurts a lot] - Zeenat Aman in the film 'Bandhan Kuchchey Dhaagon Ka' (1983)

It was the late ‘70s and the early ‘80s, and it was Zeenat Aman who was still, etched in the hearts of the youth, with her memorable performances in films like Qurbani (1980), Alibaba Aur 40 Chor (1980), Dostana (1980), and Lawaaris (1981). It was finally in 1989, that she played the final lead role of her career in the courtroom drama, Gawaahi .

Film poster for 'Pukar' by Boskey (artist/designer), Safire Printing Corporation (printer) Museum of Art & Photography

From Filmfare to Star&Style or Stardust, Zeenat became the cover girl of almost every Entertainment magazine in the ‘70s. In 1974, the famed magazine CineBlitz was actually launched with Zeenat Aman on the cover. The glamour and fanfare for the roles she portrayed on screen had brought her so much fame and glory that for the first time, the audience had almost no problems in accepting the role of unconventional women in the popular media.

Thus, she inspired many reigning diva of conventional plots and storylines to take up more challenging roles in films.

Film poster for 'Dharam Veer' by Unknown Museum of Art & Photography

Zeenat is exemplary of taking an alternative route and yet, succeeding in overshadowing the greatness of the conventional stardom. It would not be an exaggeration to point out that she had indeed eclipsed the fandoms of many superstar actresses of Bollywood during her reign in the box office.

Zeenat's story is a classic retelling of tracing the stardust of a veteran actress across two decades from the 70s to the 90s. From being a sex symbol to a winner of the best female actor award, she had ruled the silver-screen like a queen!

References: -IMDb Mini Biography By: Bhanurekha Ganesan https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0023868/bio?ref_=nm_ov_bio_sm -Zeenat Aman's troubled marriage https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/photo-features/zeenat-amans-troubled-marriage/photostory/36999648.cms -Filmy Quotes by Zeenat Aman https://www.filmyquotes.com/stars/273 -Zeenat Aman biography https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zeenat_Aman -Zeenat Aman biography and other stats https://starsunfolded.com/zeenat-aman/ -Zeenat Aman early life and career https://www.filmibeat.com/celebs/zeenat-aman/biography.html

Universes of the Marvelous in Bombay Cinema

Museum of art & photography, faces that launched a thousand films, she'll cry us a river, royalty in & as the nation, the man who (was) loved too much- rajesh khanna superstar, saris, odhanis and more: woven tales from india, seeing nargis, maharanis: women of royal india, from under the banyan tree to the world, the colors of masala, bombay cinema of the 1970s.

Zeenat Aman (Miss Asia Pacific International 1970): A Trailblazer of Beauty and Talent in Indian Cinema

Introduction.

Zeenat Aman is a name that resonates with beauty, glamour, and style in Indian cinema. Her journey from being the daughter of a celebrated scriptwriter to becoming the first Indian to win the Miss Asia Pacific International title in 1970 and later, an iconic actress, is nothing short of remarkable. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating story of Zeenat Aman, celebrating her journey, her accomplishments, her contribution to Indian cinema, and her enduring legacy.

Table of Contents

Early life and education.

Zeenat Aman, born as Zeenat Khan on 19 November 1951 in Mumbai, India, was destined for greatness from the very beginning. She was the daughter of the renowned scriptwriter Amanullah Khan, known for his work on cinematic classics like “Mughal-e-Azam” and “Pakeezah.” Her mother, Scinda Heinz, was a former model. Despite being born into a family with connections to the film industry, Zeenat’s journey was not without its share of challenges.

Tragedy struck when Zeenat lost her father at the tender age of 13. Following her father’s demise, she, along with her mother, moved to Germany, her mother’s native country. However, Zeenat later returned to India, where she pursued her education, graduating from St. Xavier’s College in Mumbai.

The Journey to Stardom: Beauty Queen to Bollywood Diva

Zeenat Aman’s journey to stardom began with a passion for modeling and journalism. At the age of 19, she made a pivotal decision to participate in the Femina Miss India pageant in 1970. Her participation in the pageant marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey.

In the 1970 Femina Miss India pageant, Zeenat Aman achieved the title of First Princess, or second runner-up, an achievement that showcased her grace and charm. She also earned the title of Miss Photogenic, a testament to her beauty and charisma. However, it was only the beginning of her ascent to greatness.

Her journey took a momentous turn when she represented India at the Miss Asia Pacific International pageant in Manila, Philippines. At this prestigious event, she competed against contestants from 14 different Asian countries. Zeenat Aman’s performance during the competition was nothing short of spectacular. She wowed the judges and the audience with her confidence, charisma, and, notably, a dance performance to the song “Dum Maro Dum” from the yet-to-be-released film “Haré Rama Haré Krishna.”

On November 21, 1970, Zeenat Aman created history by being crowned as the Miss Asia Pacific International 1970. Her victory marked not only a personal triumph but also a momentous occasion for India. She became the first Indian and the third Asian to win this esteemed title. Zeenat’s victory was a source of immense pride for the nation and a milestone for Indian women, proving that Indian beauty was second to none. She opened new doors for Indian women to pursue their dreams and aspirations across various fields.

• Non Pageant Personalities (32)
• Pageants (228)

From Pageants to Silver Screen: Zeenat’s Iconic Acting Career

Zeenat Aman’s remarkable journey from the pageant world to the silver screen is nothing short of extraordinary. Her pageant success paved the way for her entry into the world of Indian cinema. She made her film debut in 1970 with a role in “The Evil Within,” laying the foundation for a prolific career in acting.

However, it was her role as Janice/Jasbir in “Haré Rama Haré Krishna” (1971) that propelled her to stardom. Her performance in this film earned her the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress and solidified her position in the industry. Her association with the iconic song “Dum Maro Dum” further established her as a popular and influential figure in Indian cinema.

Zeenat Aman continued to grace the silver screen with her presence in numerous successful films, such as “Yaadon Ki Baaraat” (1973), “Roti Kapada Aur Makaan” (1974), “Don” (1978), “Qurbani” (1980), and many more. She became known for her bold and unconventional roles, which challenged societal norms and set her apart as a trailblazer in the world of Indian cinema.

Zeenat Aman: A Style Icon and Trendsetter

Zeenat Aman was not only celebrated for her acting prowess but also for her style and fashion sensibilities. She introduced Western fashion trends such as mini skirts, bell-bottoms, and bikinis to the Indian screen. Her bold choices in fashion and her unapologetic embrace of modern styles shattered stereotypes of the traditional heroine.

As one of the first actresses to confidently don bikinis on screen, Zeenat Aman redefined the boundaries of Indian cinema. She was a trailblazer who inspired many to express themselves freely and break free from societal constraints. Her influence extended beyond her roles and into the realms of fashion and individuality.

Versatility and Range: Zeenat Aman’s Filmography

Zeenat Aman’s filmography is a testament to her versatility and acting range. She worked with some of the finest directors and actors of her time, seamlessly transitioning between different genres and characters. Her film roles spanned comedy, drama, action, romance, thriller, suspense, horror, fantasy, and historical genres.

She shared the screen with acclaimed actors like Manoj Kumar, Rajesh Khanna, Amitabh Bachchan, Shashi Kapoor, Rishi Kapoor, Vinod Khanna, Feroz Khan, and Raj Kapoor, among others. Her ability to adapt to diverse roles and genres solidified her status as a sought-after actress in the Indian film industry.

Iconic Music and Dance: Zeenat Aman’s Contribution

Zeenat Aman’s contribution to Indian cinema extended beyond acting. She featured in some of the most iconic songs of Bollywood, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music and dance. Her presence on screen was electrifying, and she danced her way into the hearts of millions.

Songs like “Dum Maro Dum,” “Chura Liya Hai Tumne,” “Aap Jaisa Koi,” “Laila O Laila,” and “Do Lafzon Ki Hai” became timeless classics and are remembered as much for her grace and allure as for the music itself.

A Champion of Social Causes

Zeenat Aman’s influence extended to the real world as well. She dedicated her time and resources to various social and charitable causes, demonstrating that her heart was as generous as her talent.

1. Film Heritage Foundation:

Zeenat Aman collaborated with the Film Heritage Foundation (FHF), a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and restoring India’s cinematic heritage. She participated in events organized by FHF and donated personal memorabilia, including costumes and posters, to contribute to their archives.

2. Animal Welfare:

Zeenat Aman is a staunch advocate for animal rights. She has been associated with organizations like People for Animals (PFA), World Wildlife Fund (WWF), and Animal Rahat. Her commitment to protecting animals and raising awareness about issues like poaching, hunting, and circus abuse has made a significant impact.

3. Women Empowerment:

Zeenat Aman is a symbol of empowerment for women who aspire to challenge stereotypes and achieve their dreams. She has supported initiatives and organizations working for women’s empowerment, such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Laadli, and Shakti. Through her own experiences, she has inspired other women to speak up against domestic violence and harassment.

4. Other Causes:

Beyond these core causes, Zeenat Aman has lent her support to a range of issues, including environmental conservation, education, health, and peace. Her participation in events and campaigns has raised awareness and funds for these causes, and her generous donations have made a tangible difference.

A Living Legend: Zeenat Aman Today

As we fast forward to the present day, Zeenat Aman remains a dynamic and influential figure in the entertainment industry. Despite the challenges and setbacks she faced in her personal life, she continued to pursue her passion for acting, making occasional appearances in films and television shows. Her indomitable spirit and dedication to her craft are truly inspirational.

Zeenat Aman recently recovered from a severe bout of illness, which had her bedridden for ten days. Her resilience and the outpouring of well-wishes from her fans are a testament to the love and admiration she continues to receive.

In a recent collaboration with actress Janhvi Kapoor for a mobile ad, Zeenat Aman’s iconic style and legacy were celebrated. The ad, released in October 2023, showcased the two actresses in stunning black outfits, capturing moments with grace and style. The collaboration sparked enthusiasm among fans, who expressed their desire to see the two stars together in a full-fledged film.

Zeenat Aman is all set to make her comeback on the big screen with “Margaon: The Closed File.” This murder mystery, set in 1970s Goa, is directed by Mohit Priyadarshi. Zeenat Aman will portray Sylvia Nanavati, a character tied to a sensational naval case that gripped the nation. The film boasts an ensemble cast, including Om Puri, Ashutosh Rana, Dalip Tahil, Raj Zutshi, and others.

Additionally, Zeenat Aman is part of a web series titled “Contract,” based on a novel by bestselling author Hussain Zaidi. The series is a crime thriller that delves into the world of Mumbai’s underworld dons. Zeenat Aman will play the role of Sara Mistry, a powerful businesswoman with a mysterious past. The series also features Ronit Roy, Tanuj Virwani, Gauahar Khan, Parvin Dabas, and others.

A Timeless Legend: Zeenat Aman’s Enduring Legacy

Zeenat Aman is an eternal icon of Indian cinema. Her journey from beauty queen to Bollywood diva, her groundbreaking style, and her dedication to social causes make her an inspiration to many. Her resilience, spirit, and continuing contributions to the world of entertainment stand as a testament to the power of passion and determination.

In conclusion, Zeenat Aman is not just a star on the screen; she is a star with a heart of gold. Her commitment to social causes and her everlasting impact on Indian cinema continue to shine brightly. We celebrate her achievements, her legacy, and eagerly anticipate her upcoming projects. Zeenat Aman is living proof that age is no barrier to talent and that true icons are timeless.

Also read about “ Neha Dhupia (Miss Universe India 2002): A Journey of Versatility and Success “

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Zeenat Aman’s Biography | Birth | Education | Family | Marriage | Debut | Filmography | Awards

Zeenat Aman is an Indian veteran actress and model. In the year 1971, she made her acting debut with the Bollywood film ‘Halchal.’ She gained success with the Hindi film ‘Hare Ram Hare Krishna.’

Zeenat Aman is an Indian veteran actress and model. She was born on 19 November 1951 in Mumbai. Her sun sign is Scorpio. She earned her graduate degree from St Xavier’s University, Mumbai. 

Her father’s name was Amanullah Khan. Her mother’s name was Scinda Heinz. 

Zeenat Aman has been married twice. She is a mother of two sons, Zahaan Khan and Azaan Khan. 

Zeenat Aman’s favourites

Her hobbies include reading books, listening to music, and collecting perfumes. 

Her favourite actors are Raj Kapoor and Shashi Kapoor. 

Interesting facts about Zeenat Aman

Zeenat Aman’s father Amanullah Khan was a screenwriter who wrote scripts for films like ‘Mughal-e-Azam’ and ‘Pakeezah.’ Her father passed away when she was 13 years old. 

Zeenat Aman started her career in the entertainment industry as a model. She was the first runner up in the Miss India beauty pageant in the year 1970. She also won the titles like Miss Pacific Asia, and Miss Photogenic. 

In the year 1971, she made her acting debut with the Bollywood film ‘Halchal.’ The same year, she did a film called ‘Hungama.’ Both the films did not do well at the box office, and Zeenat Aman was disappointed with the failure of her first two films. 

Zeenat Aman’s hit film

Zeenat Aman and Dev Anand starrer Hindi film ‘Hare Ram Hare Krishna’ was a commercial success that helped Zeenat to establish herself as a successful actress. 

In the year 1972, she won the Best Supporting Actress award for the film ‘Hare Ram Hare Krishna.’

She played the role of ‘Rupa’ opposite Shashi Kapoor in the 1978 film ‘Satyam Shivam Sundaram.’ The film was a massive hit at the box office. 

Zeenat Aman’s marriage

Zeenat Aman was married to Sanjay Khan from 1978-1979. The couple got divorced within a year because of their incompatibility.  

She tied the knot with Mazhar Khan in the year 1985. Her husband passed away in the year 1998. 

Zeenat Aman’s song ‘Chura Liya Hai’ from the 1973 film ‘Yaadon Ki Baaraat’ gained immense popularity. The song remains a classic till date. 

Zeenat Aman’s awards

In the year 2003, she received the Bollywood Movie Award for Lifetime of Glamour. 

In 2010, she won two IIFA Awards for Outstanding Contribution to Hindi Cinema and Outstanding Achievement. 

Zeenat Aman’s filmography

Zeenat Aman’s popular films are Gambler (1971), Jaanwar (1982), Daulat (1982), Chori Mera Kaam (1975), Taqdeer (1983), Roti (1974), Chhailla Babu (1977), Pukar (1983), Ram Balram (1980), Ajnabee (1974), Heera Panna (1973), Roti Kapada Aur Makaan (1974), Alibaba Aur 40 Chor (1980), Qurbani (1980), and Don (1978).

Last Updated Dec 20, 2023, 3:33 PM IST

Zeenat Aman

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Zeenat Aman: Tracing The Legacy of Bollywood's Timeless Diva Through Her Iconic Roles

Zeenat Aman is one of the most beloved Indian actors to have graced the silver screen. Throughout her career, Aman portrayed numerous roles that were deemed 'bold and brave,' particularly considering the societal norms of her time.

• Itisha Arya
• Updated - 2023-11-16, 14:07 IST

Zeenat’s Bold Character In ‘Hare Rama Hare Krishna’

Zeenat’s Iconic Role In ‘Satyam Shivam Sundaram’

Zeenat’s Sharp And Strong Character In ‘Don’

Zeenat’s Character In ‘Yaadon Ki Baaraat’

Zeenat Aman In ‘Dostana'

Credits: Youtube

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Zeenat Aman's Life: Biography, Personel Life and Relationship

Zeenat Aman Biography

Early Life and Education

The pageant queen, cinematic breakthrough, the icon of modernism, style maven beyond the screen, personal life: marriage, challenges, and relationships, cinematic odyssey (1970s to 1990s), selective roles and legacy, web series and special appearances, awards and achievements, facts , a glamorous legacy.

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7 incredible films of the bold and beautiful Zeenat Aman that were way ahead of their time

By Karishma Shetty

At a time when actresses were relegated to the roles of dedicated housewives or sacrificing mothers, in came Zeenat Aman like a breath of fresh air. She ruled the '70s and '80s with her alluring screen presence, portrayed rebellious characters in blockbuster films, and always stole the show.

If social media existed back then, Zeenat Aman would have broken the Internet on a regular. Proving yet again that she will never go out of style, the legendary actress is currently acing the Instagram game and will be making her acting comeback in Bun Tikki alongside Shabana Azmi and Abhay Deol.

Needless to say, the legendary actress's filmography boasts of evergreen picks that were way ahead of its time…

Here are 7 quintessential films starring Zeenat Aman that were ahead of its time:

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Zeenat Aman became an overnight sensation when she collaborated with her mentor Dev Anand in Haré Rama Haré Krishna . The cult classic, for which Aman won a Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress, tells the tale of a brother who's looking for his long-lost sister. He eventually tracks her down in Kathmandu, Nepal. However, she no longer goes by the name Jasbir but Janice (portrayed by Zeenat Aman), now a drug-laced hippie. Zeenat Aman’s bold avatar in Dum Maro Dum remains a cinematic spectacle to revisit even today.

The influence Dharmendra starrer Yaadon Ki Baaraat (also Aamir Khan 's debut film as a child actor) had on Indian cinema can be felt even today. The storyline follows three brothers who are separated after their parents’ murder. They reunite years later through a family song. Zeenat Aman plays Vijay’s (Vijay Arora) love interest. The classic tunes of Chura Liya Hai Tumne picturised on a ravishing Aman became a major talking point of the blockbuster film.

Another star-studded ensemble that Zeenat Aman was a pivotal part of was Roti Kapda Aur Makaan . The film focuses on Bharat (Manoj Kumar), a poor man who struggles to make ends meet and provide the bare necessities of life to his family after his father’s demise. Zeenat Aman played Bharat’s girlfriend Sheetal, who can’t imagine a life riddled with poverty and dumps him to marry Mohan Babu ( Shashi Kapoor ), a millionaire businessman. Aman got to play around with her character thanks to Sheetal's complex nature.

By Sanjana Ray

By Gaurav Sonavane

To think Zeenat Aman wasn’t the first choice to play Roopa in Satyam Shivam Sundaram , arguably her most iconic role seems preposterous. However, it's true and Aman had to convince Raj Kapoor to take a chance on her. The gamble proved worthwhile as it wasn’t just Zeenat Aman’s irreplaceable sex appeal that left everyone gobsmacked (Who can forget how she slayed in that white sheer sari?!), but also her acting skills that came beaming through in this cult movie. Satyam Shivam Sundaram tells the powerful tale of a beautiful singer who is shunned by her husband when he finds out her secret that half of her face is disfigured. Zeenat Aman received a Filmfare Award nomination for Best Actress for the film.

Interestingly, Zeenat Aman was asked on Koffee With Karan 8 who she’d think would be perfect for the role of Roopa if a sequel to Satyam Shivam Sundaram is made, and the actress said Deepika Padukone .

A blockbuster that spawned a franchise, we have Don , starring Amitabh Bachchan in his trademark “Angry Young Man” avatar. The storyline follows a common man disguising himself to be Don — who is already dead — to infiltrate the crime lord’s gang. Giving Big B valuable company in the film is Zeenat Aman as Roma, who goes toe-to-toe with Don/Vijay.

Another Zeenat Aman starrer that achieved cult status is The Great Gambler . The crime action classic is centered on a gambler and his lookalike, who is a police officer. Zeenat Aman is paired opposite Amitabh Bachchan as Shabnam, a double agent posing as a club dancer. The Great Gambler is another example of how Zeenat Aman stood apart and made the role her own.

In Qurbani , Zeenat Aman plays Sheela, a cabaret dancer and singer who becomes the object of affection for two thick-as-thieves friends, played by Feroz Khan and Vinod Khanna . Deemed the highest-grossing film of 1980 and one of Zeenat's “favourite projects to date,” Qurbani is popularly known for its blockbuster songs, especially Aap Jaisa Koi and Laila O Laila , both of which were brought to life on celluloid by the effervescent Aman.

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Expresso Feature on Zeenat Aman: Bollywood’s First ‘Sex Symbol’ and the Unfortunate Choices in Life and Love

In this Expresso Feature, we look at how Zeenat Aman entered the film industry in 1971 and burst the idealistic bubble of the 1950s and 1960s, paving way for a more realistic portrayal of women, who until then were either vamps or sati-savitri.

Expresso Feature on Zeenat Aman: Bollywood's First 'Sex Symbol' and the Unfortunate Choices in Life and Love Transcript

In its almost 70-decade history, Hindi cinema has seen female leads transform from ‘dukhiyaari’ and ‘bechaari’ to ones who live on their terms. Not just the roles they play, but even their look has evolved. And, the one actress who has enabled actresses of today to showcase their sultry side unabashedly and wear whatever they choose is Zeenat Aman. It is Zeenat who broke the template of ‘traditional is beautiful’, followed staunchly by her predecessors, and made way for the likes of Kareena Kapoor Khan, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, among others, to look stylish, wear modern clothes and embrace their sensuality on-screen.

Zeenat Aman entered the film industry in 1971, paving the way for a more realistic portrayal of women, who until then were divided into either vamps or sati-savitri. The first time people took notice of her was when she was smoking marijuana, wearing bohemian prints and bindis, and living like a hippie in Hare Rama Hare Krishna. She played Janice, Dev Anand’s young sister who consumed drugs, a role rejected by many lead actresses of the time.

Born to a Muslim father and a Maharashtrian Hindu mother on November 19, 1951, she spent nine years at a boarding school in Panchagani. Her parents divorced when she was two and her mother married a German man. Her I.S.C. results won her a scholarship to the United States and she did a year of high school in California.

On her return to India, she modelled for a while and entered the Miss India contest. She won the Miss Asia Pacific title and debuted in O.P. Ralhan’s Hulchul (1971), in a minuscule role. At the time, nobody, including Zeenat, thought she would become a sensation and acquire the top spot in the Hindi cinema.

A chance meeting with Dev Anand would change her fate forever. She also revealed she was so unprepared to become an actor that she didn’t know Hindi and did her screen test for the film in English. But Anand’s cameraman approved of her and she hypnotised the audience as she sang ‘Dum Maro Dum’.

In her subsequent films, Zeenat transformed the convention of a Hindi film heroine. She made popular filmmaker Nasir Hussain change the way he perceived his leading ladies with Yaadon Ki Baraat. During the shoot of her superhit song in the film, ‘Chura Liya Hai Tumne Jo Dil Ko’, she refused to be dressed in a pink salwar-kameez.

She played a wife who gets into an extramarital affair in Dhund (1973), an opportunist who leaves her unemployed lover for a millionaire in Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974), a woman who considers abortion to achieve her dreams in Ajnabee (1974), and an unapologetic sex worker in Manoranjan (1975).

Aman worked with Dev Anand in a dozen films after the success of Hare Rama Hare Krishna: Heera Panna (1973), Ishq Ishq Ishq (1974), Prem Shastra (1974), Warrant (1975), Darling Darling (1977), Kalabaaz (1977). But none, besides Warrant, brought her success. However, her films with other filmmakers and actors reaped her results. One of her most successful pairings happened with Amitabh Bachchan as they starred together in hits like The Great Gambler, Don, Dostana, Laawaris, Pukar, and Mahaan.

The one film which showcased the splendid talent of Zeenat and became a career-defining moment for her was Raj Kapoor’s 1977 social drama, Satyam Shivam Sundaram. Aman made great efforts to convince Kapoor that no one could pull off Rupa better than her.

Since she found the film to be a way to shut her critics who called her just a ‘sex symbol’ and ‘glamour girl’, Zeenat was tense before its release. Satyam Shivam Sundaram was released in 1978 and drew some strong reactions from the audience for Kapoor’s depiction of her as an object of desire. But it brought attention to Zeenat’s acting prowess and made other filmmakers take notice of her. The vengeful Roma in Don (1978) and the white bikini-clad Sheela of Qurbani (1980) became the stepping stones towards the number one spot in the leading ladies of Hindi cinema.

When Zeenat Aman was basking in “wealth and fame”, she was devoid of “love” and made some “foolish mistakes” in her personal life. She was unlucky in love, twice. Her relationship with Sanjay Khan went sour, and he reportedly physically abused her at a hotel, leaving her with a grave eye injury. When asked about it, Aman only said, “You have to take life in stride”. Later, she married actor Mazhar Khan only because she wanted children. Aman and Khan got married in October 1985 and welcomed their first son in October 1986.

It was during the first year of her marriage that Aman realised she had made a mistake. Despite getting no love from her husband, Aman nursed him for five years, from 1993 to 1997, when he fell sick. When he recovered in 1997, she walked away from the marriage, and he passed away in 1998. Zeenat’s professional life took a backseat. She chose to be a full-time mother to her sons instead of starring in films. And, when she tried coming back, “there were no age-appropriate roles”.

But, on February 11, 2023, her fans and millennials who until then had just watched her swinging and singing “Laila main Laila” or “Aap jaisa koi”, found her back, not in movies but on Instagram. This time the audience witnessed a new side of a film celebrity — unconventional, authentic, and uninhibited about sharing her life’s experiences. The actor turned 72 on November 19th, 2023, but she doesn’t mind ageing as she believes, being old is as “wonderful” as being young. She once wrote - “Being young is wonderful, but so is being old. It thrills me to see more and more silver-haired women of all ages challenge the status quo.”

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Zeenat Aman: Even 45 years after its release, the original Don is still a blockbuster

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ज़ीनत अमान से जुड़ी कुछ रोचक जानकारियाँ

• क्या ज़ीनत अमान शराब पीती हैं ?: नहीं
• ज़ीनत अमान स्वर्गीय अमानुल्ला खान की बेटी हैं, जिन्होंने फिल्म ‘मुगल-ए-आज़म’ और ‘पाकीज़ा’ की पटकथा को लिखा था। जब ज़ीनत 13 वर्ष की थीं, तब उनके पिता का निधन हो गया था। जिसके चलते ज़ीनत ने अपने पिता के उपनाम (अमान) को अपनाया।
• ज़ीनत अमान ने कई प्रतियोगिताओं में भाग लिया। जैसे कि उन्होंने मिस इंडिया सौंदर्य प्रतियोगिता (1970) में दूसरा स्थान हासिल किया। इसके साथ-साथ उन्होंने ‘मिस पैसिफिक एशिया’ (1970) का खिताब जीता ऐसा करने वाली वह पहली भारतीय महिला बनीं। इसके अलावा उन्होंने मनीला में भारत का प्रतिनिधित्व किया और एक अन्य ख़िताब ‘मिस फोटोजेनिक’ को जीता।

• ज़ीनत अपनी पहली दो फिल्मों की विफलता से काफी निराश हुईं, जिसके चलते उन्होंने अपने अभिनय करियर को समाप्त करने का मन बनाया और अपने सौतेले पिता और माता के साथ देश छोड़कर जाने लगीं। तभी देव आनंद ने ज़ीनत से फिल्म “हरे राम हरे कृष्णा” के रिलीज़ होने तक रुकने को कहा। अंत में फिल्म ने व्यवसायिक सफलता हासिल की और फिल्मजगत में सुपरहिट साबित हुई। जिसने ज़ीनत को एक बार फिर अपने अभिनय करियर में आगे बढ़ने का अवसर प्रदान किया।
• वह फिल्मजगत में हेमा मालिनी के बराबर सबसे अधिक भुगतान हासिल करने वाली अभिनेत्री थीं।

• ज़ीनत अमान का वैवाहिक जीवन काफी दुखदायी था। जिसके चलते संजय खान से विवाह करने के एक साल के भीतर उनका तलाक हो गया। उसके बाद उन्होंने दूसरा विवाह किया दुर्भाग्यवश वह विवाह भी उनका कठिनाईयों भरा रहा। जिसके चलते 12 वर्ष के भीतर उनके दूसरे पति का भी निधन हो गया था।
• ज़ीनत अमान को फिल्म “यादों की बारात” (1973) के गीत “चुरा लिया है” से काफी लोकप्रियता मिली। दिलचस्प बात यह है कि ज़ीनत को इस गीत में एक सलवार सूट पहनना था। जो उन्होंने फिल्म के गीत के दौरान पहना। परन्तु उन्होंने गीत की शूटिंग के समय अपनी पोशाक को बदल दिया और कहा,”मैं इस पहनावे में सहज महसूस नहीं कर रही हूँ और इसलिए मैं इसे बदलना चाहती हूँ।”
• सलमान खान ने फिल्म ‘मैंने प्यार किया’ देखने के लिए ज़ीनत अमान को बुलाया। फिल्म को देखकर जब ज़ीनत थिएटर से बाहर आईं तो सलमान ने ज़ीनत से फिल्म के बारे में पूछा। ज़ीनत ने फिल्म के बारे में बताते हुए फिल्म की आलोचना कर दी और कहा कि “यह कैसी बचकानी फिल्म है जिसमें हीरोइन की एड़ी पर क्रीम लगाते हुए हीरो अपनी आंखें बंद कर लेता है।”
• वर्ष 1972 में, उन्हें फिल्म ‘हरे राम हरे कृष्णा’ के लिए सर्वश्रेष्ठ सह-अभिनेत्री के पुरस्कार से सम्मानित किया गया।

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