Zeenat Aman, a trailblazer in Indian cinema, redefined the portrayal of women in Bollywood during the 1970s and 80s. With her stunning beauty, bold performances, and magnetic screen presence, she became the epitome of modernity and broke several stereotypes. Here are five of her most iconic roles that cemented her legacy as the “Queen of Hearts”:
1. Janice in Hare Rama Hare Krishna (1971)
Zeenat Aman’s portrayal of Janice, a young woman caught in the counterculture and drug addiction, remains unforgettable. The song “Dum Maro Dum” became her calling card, turning her into an overnight sensation. Her raw, unfiltered portrayal of a troubled soul resonated with audiences and showcased her exceptional talent.
2. Roma in Don (1978)
In this action thriller alongside Amitabh Bachchan, Zeenat played the role of Roma, a fierce woman seeking revenge for her brother’s death. Unlike the typical damsel-in-distress roles of the era, Roma was strong, fearless, and capable of taking on Don himself. Her stunts and feisty spirit made her stand out, setting a new benchmark for female characters in action films.
3. Rupa in Satyam Shivam Sundaram (1978)
Zeenat delivered one of her most complex performances as Rupa, a woman scarred on one side of her face but possessing inner beauty and strength. This Raj Kapoor-directed film highlighted Zeenat’s acting range and vulnerability, proving her talent went far beyond glamorous roles.
4. Zeenie Baby in Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973)
Playing the quintessential “cool girl” with unmatched style and grace, Zeenat’s character and the song “Chura Liya Hai Tumne” became legendary. She effortlessly embodied the youthful, independent spirit, capturing the imagination of an entire generation.
5. Bharti in Qurbani (1980)
Zeenat’s sizzling chemistry with Feroz Khan and her performance in the chart-topping song “Aap Jaisa Koi” made Qurbani a blockbuster. Her role symbolized confidence and glamor, leaving a lasting impact on Bollywood’s portrayal of leading ladies.
These unforgettable performances not only won hearts but also redefined Bollywood heroines, making Zeenat Aman an eternal icon.
