This is how Zeenat Aman, who charmed Indians in the 1970s with her innovative style and unorthodox Bollywood roles, characterized herself on Instagram when she made her debut there earlier this month.
The 71-year-old has barely posted a dozen times so far – largely images of herself with reflections on aging, her adventurous career, and her favorite dog Lily – but her presence has captivated many.
Her first couple of posts were photographs taken of her at home by a young female photographer. Aman, clad in linen overalls and seated on a stool near a patch of sunlight, reflected in her caption on the dominance of the masculine gaze in 1970s films and fashion.
“During my career, numerous talented men have photographed and videotaped me. But, a woman’s gaze is distinct… There were no lights, makeup artists, hairdressers, stylists, or assistants. Simply a beautiful sunny afternoon together “She authored the text.
Since then, the post has been shared thousands of times across social media platforms, and Aman has been hailed for igniting a significant dialogue in the most basic way.
The most amazing aspect of her Instagram debut, though, is that a performer whose most remembered performances occurred forty years ago has managed to connect with a significantly younger audience almost immediately.
Even millennials, who typically love memes, exaggeration, and Vulgarity, said they enjoy her profound and meaningful captions.
As one user stated:
“If you so want, the metaverse can be a serene and beautiful place. Zeenat Aman demonstrated.”
Aman is no stranger to fame and attention, both positive and negative.
She was already a successful model when she began her Bollywood career in 1971 with a modest role in Hulchul.
In the same year, she shot to prominence with her portrayal in the hit film Hare Rama Hare Krishna, in which she portrayed a naive, innocent drug addict flower child.
From blowing smoke rings in packed, dirty rooms to dancing with hippies in skimpy tie-dye skirts, Aman and the film revolutionized the fashion of women in the film industry.
In the ensuing years, Aman would continue to experiment with characters that were decades ahead of their time.
She was not a typical Bollywood heroine due to her unique appearance, daring dress choices, and outspoken nature. Yet, crowds adored her.
During her career, Aman’s “Western appearance” was the subject of heated controversy, but the performer remained confident in her own skin. She had a captivating film presence and handled her life, which included painful personal events, with confidence.
Decades later, Aman is no longer the fiery diva she once was at the height of her stardom. Yet, her propensity for initiating conversations has not changed.
On Instagram, the actor is lovely and matter-of-fact as she reflects on her youth and success – not through a lens of regret, but simply from the perspective of being older.
Her comments about not wanting to color her gray hair resonated with her audience.
“I was originally hesitant to discontinue dying my hair, despite strong advice to the contrary… As I examined my own reluctance, I realized that I have no desire to contribute to our society’s veneration of youth “She wrote the text.
Aman emphasizes in post after post that an older lady does not lose her beauty or autonomy. “In general, as we age, men inherit gravity, whereas women receive at best sympathy,” she writes.
She says that being young is amazing. But so too is aging. Other women told the BBC that Aman’s posts reminded them of their own power and vigor.
“At a time when technology and Instagram filters are rewriting our bodies and faces, Aman – with her exquisite silver bob and delicate wrinkles – is inspiring a more authentic evaluation of what it means to be a woman,” a fan explains.
“I adore how straightforward and genuine she is,” says another.
And it’s not all solemn contemplations. The actor often contributes humorous personal tidbits; she revealed last week that her sons taught her the meaning of the word “thirst trap.” And young and elderly fans alike adored her innocence.
According to one Twitter user, Zeenat Aman’s joining Instagram is one of the nicest things to have occurred on the internet in recent years.
Also Read: What Is The Real Name Of Youtuber CoryxKenshin
