Zeenat Aman Reflects on a Pivotal Moment with Raj Kapoor
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Mumbai, Dec 14 (NationPress) Celebrating the centenary of Raj Kapoor, esteemed actress Zeenat Aman revealed a "defining anecdote" from her illustrious career while filming the movie "Vakil Babu" alongside the legendary star.
Zeenat took to Instagram, sharing a nostalgic behind-the-scenes photo featuring herself and Raj Kapoor. In the classic monochrome shot, the late icon is depicted applying the memorable scar on her face for "Satyam Shivam Sundaram."
She expressed her thoughts, stating: "In December, we honor the 100th birth anniversary of the remarkable Raj Kapoor."
"I have recounted the tale of how he cast me as Rupa in Satyam Shivam Sundaram numerous times, but here it is for Instagram. A pivotal moment from my career."
She fondly recalled filming "Vakil Babu" with Raj Kapoor and Shashi Kapoor.
"It was around 1976, and we were working on Vakil Babu. Rajji portrayed the lead role, while his brother Shashi Kapoor and I played each other's love interests. During breaks, as the crew set up new scenes and adjusted lighting, we often found ourselves with idle time."
She noted that Raj Kapoor had a "visionary approach to his craft, overflowing with excitement for a film he aspired to create. For days, he captivated us with his concept of a story about a man who falls for a woman's voice but struggles with her appearance."
The actress remembered his unrestrained enthusiasm, yet he never suggested she could star in this film, which eventually became "Satyam Shivam Sundaram."
"I was already an established star, and his apparent disinterest in casting me began to frustrate me. I recognized that my "modern image," complete with mini skirts and boots, was likely the reason. So, I resolved to take action."
"I was aware that Rajji often spent time at ‘The Cottage’ on the grounds of his expansive R.K. Studio. Here, he would conduct meetings or host small gatherings, often sitting on a pristine mattress on the floor. So I decided to make my move," she recounted.
Revealing the captivating story, Zeenat stated: "One evening, after finishing my shoot early, I took an additional 30 minutes in my dressing room to prepare my own version of Rupa. I donned a ghagra choli, braided my hair with a parandi, and affixed tissue paper to my face with glue to create a scar."
"Upon arriving at The Cottage, I was welcomed by John, Rajji's assistant. He looked at me with curiosity but complied with my request - 'Saabji ko kaho ki Rupa ayi hai.' To be continued tomorrow…"
"Satyam Shivam Sundaram" was released in 1978, directed by Raj Kapoor. The film, also featuring Shashi Kapoor, explores the contrast between physical and spiritual love.
This cinematic piece was dedicated to the legendary playback singer Mukesh, who lent his voice to Raj Kapoor in several films. Tragically, he passed away two years before the film’s premiere, and his last recorded song was included in this movie.
