Zeenat Aman, renowned for her iconic roles in 1970s Bollywood, recently stirred nostalgia with a series of Instagram posts delving into her cinematic journey. Reflecting on her experience working on the 1974 film “Manoranjan,” Aman recounted the challenges posed by moral policing during that era. In particular, she reminisced about her portrayal of a sexually liberated character and the controversial reception it garnered from societal norms.
Aman’s candid revelations about her role as a sex worker in “Manoranjan,” directed by Shammi Kapoor, shed light on the progressive themes and groundbreaking narrative choices that defied conventional norms of the time. The film, hailed for its adaptation of the American comedy “Irma Le Douce,” showcased Aman’s portrayal of Nisha, a character marked by dignity, independence, and humor.
In her Instagram caption, Aman expressed gratitude for the support she received from her colleagues, including Kapoor, renowned music director RD Burman, and acclaimed actor Sanjeev Kumar. Despite facing moral scrutiny, Aman’s portrayal resonated with audiences, marking a significant milestone in Indian cinema’s evolution.
Amidst discussions surrounding Aman’s post, global icon Priyanka Chopra chimed in, acknowledging the enduring presence of moral policing even in contemporary times. Chopra’s words of support underscore the ongoing relevance of Aman’s experiences, highlighting the importance of dialogue and advocacy in challenging societal norms.
As Aman’s revelations spark introspection and dialogue, her journey continues to serve as a beacon of empowerment and resilience, inspiring generations of artists to push boundaries and defy conventions in pursuit of artistic expression.
