Bollywood veteran actress Zeenat Aman has always been known for her offbeat characters and bold avatars. ‘Satyam Shivam Sundaram’ is one such film in which Zeenat took the entire Bollywood to a new level. The classic cult film starring Shashi Kapoor was one of Bollywood’s biggest hits. Released in 1978, Zeenat appeared in the bold and sexy role of Roopa in the film, and it was really a big deal to play such a bold character during that time.
Zeenat who made her Instagram debut a few days ago shared a rare picture and wrote a long note about facing criticism for the role. In the picture, Zeenat is seen wearing a deep neck blouse and is sitting smiling. She wrote in the caption, “This picture was taken by photographer JP Singhal during a look test for Satyam Shivam Sundaram around 1977. We shot the series at RK studios, and my costumes were designed by Oscar winner Bhanu Athaiya “
She further added, “Anyone familiar with the history of Bollywood would know that there was a lot of controversy and hue and cry about my character Roopa in Satyam Shivam Sundaram. I was always quite taken aback by the allegations of obscenity because I didn’t find anything obscene and never Only I found anything obscene.” about the human body. I am a director’s actor and this look was part of my job. Roopa’s sexuality was not the crux of the plot, but a part of it. Anyway, the set is not even remotely the sexiest place. Each move is choreographed, rehearsed and performed in front of dozens of crew members.”
“Director Raj Kapoor (Razzi) had brought me on board for the film, but was worried about my “Western” image. He was unsure whether the audience would accept me in this avatar or not, and so organized this look test. For the test, we shot a short reel picturized on Lata ji’s famous song ‘Jago Mohan Pyare’ from the film Jagte Raho in 1956. To gauge the reaction of his distributors to me in this role, Rajji shot at RK Studios. reel. After that first screening, rights of all territories were sold immediately”, the post further read.
Zeenat Aman, a former beauty queen, made her acting debut with The Evil Within (1970) opposite Dev Anand. He acted in many movies like Hulchul, Hare Rama Hare Krishna, Yaadon Ki Baaraat and many more.
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