From the stoned flower child in "Hare Rama Hare Krishna" to the happy hooker in "Manoranjan," Zeenat Aman shattered stereotypes and redefined the Hindi film heroine. As she turns 73 on November 19, Dinesh Raheja takes a look at eight of her definitive chartbusters and how her creative ambition and guts paved the way for her to score more hit songs than her contemporaries.
Zeenat Aman: Shattering Stereotypes and Redefining the Hindi Film Heroine
Background:
Zeenat Aman, born on November 19, 1947, emerged as a trailblazing actress in the Indian film industry during the 1970s and 1980s. Her unconventional roles and bold personality challenged traditional stereotypes, paving the way for a more modern and progressive representation of women in Hindi cinema.
From Child to Hooker: Zeenat Aman's Definitive Roles
One of her earliest memorable roles was as the "stoned flower child" in the 1971 film "Hare Rama Hare Krishna." This unconventional portrayal of a young woman exploring drug use and free love made headlines and established Aman as an actress willing to push boundaries.
Another iconic role came in the 1973 film "Manoranjan," where she played a "happy hooker" named Reshma. This fearless portrayal of a marginalized character challenged societal norms and sparked controversies. Despite the backlash, Aman's performance received critical acclaim.
8 Definitive Chartbusters:
Throughout her career, Zeenat Aman was known for her impeccable dancing skills and captivating performances in hit songs. Here are eight of her most iconic chartbusters:
Creative Ambition and Guts:
Zeenat Aman's willingness to take on challenging roles and her fearless pursuit of her craft paved the way for her to achieve greater success than many of her contemporaries. Her boldness and determination inspired a generation of actresses to break free from conventional roles.
FAQs:
1. What was Zeenat Aman's first acting role? A: Aman's first major acting role was in the 1970 film "The Evil Within."
2. Why was Zeenat Aman known for her dancing? A: Aman was trained in classical dance from a young age and showcased her exceptional dancing skills in numerous hit songs.
3. What controversies surrounded Zeenat Aman's career? A: Aman faced criticism for her portrayal of a prostitute in "Manoranjan" and for her bold and provocative fashion choices.
4. What was Zeenat Aman's relationship with Dev Anand? A: Aman had a close relationship with actor Dev Anand, who played a pivotal role in her career and helped her establish herself as a leading lady.
5. What is Zeenat Aman doing now? A: After retiring from acting in the 1990s, Zeenat Aman has been involved in various philanthropic efforts and is currently a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Program.
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