From taking on bold, unconventional roles to showcasing impeccable Western-inspired fashion, she cemented her place as one of the most influential icons of 1970s Hindi cinema.

She didn’t just win over audiences during the golden era of cinema; even at the age of 74, she continues to be a role model for Gen-Z with her strong digital presence.

She is none other than the ever-charming Zeenat Aman, who showcased her versatility in hit films like Hare Rama Hare Krishna, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Satyam Shivam Sundaram, Don, and many more.

Last year, through her social media, she shared the story of how the late actor-filmmaker Raj Kapoor cast her as Rupa in the 1978 hit Satyam Shivam Sundaram.

Last year, through her social media, she shared the story of how the late actor-filmmaker Raj Kapoor cast her as Rupa in the 1978 hit Satyam Shivam Sundaram.

In 1976, she was working with Shashi Kapoor and Raj Kapoor on the film Vakil Babu. At that time, Raj was planning a new film with great enthusiasm.

She shared, “For days, he regaled us with his idea for a story about a man who falls in love with a woman’s voice but can’t quite reconcile himself to her appearance.” However, he never hinted that she might be part of the film.

Zeenat added, “I was already a star in my own right, and his lack of interest in casting me began to chafe. I knew that my ‘modern image,’ complete with mini skirts and boots, was the culprit.”

She was so determined to prove she suited the character that one evening she arrived at The Cottage set on the grounds of his sprawling R.K. Studio, where Raj often spent his spare time.

She recalled, “I made my move. One evening, having wrapped up early from shoot, I spent an extra 30 minutes in my dressing room making up my own interpretation of Rupa.”

She added, “I put on a ghagra choli, braided my hair with a parandi, and then stuck tissue paper onto my face with glue in an effort to scar my visage.”

After reaching his place, she told Raj’s right-hand man, John, “Saabji ko kaho ki Rupa ayi hai.”

Zenaat, in an Instagram post, had said that Raj Kapoor gave her “a handful of gold guineas” as a signing amount for Satyam Shivam Sundaram.