“Is it Dior, Chanel?” Zeenat Aman wonders aloud when asked about her lavender-tinted sunglasses during a recent interview. A voice nearby identifies them as Gucci, and Aman, beaming sweetly, confirms it with a nod, “It is Gucci.” At 72 years old, Zeenat Aman remains a beacon of stately exuberance, as evidenced in the stark conference room where our conversation takes place. The veteran Hindi film actor was attending the #WeSeeEqual summit, a corporate event focused on parity, inclusion, and mental health, held at Procter & Gamble offices in Mumbai. Fittingly, Aman has utilized her social media popularity—after her sensational debut on Instagram in 2023—to advocate for numerous causes. “Can I refer to my notes?” she asks with a polite smile as we settle in for the discussion.
Zeenat Aman speaks about how she has struck a significant connection with the youth, especially Generation Z. She marvels at how this generation is more informed and aware than her contemporaries were at their age. Gratified by the response to her social media presence, Aman reveals, “60% of my Instagram followers are between 25 and 44 years old.” She advises the youth to see the Internet as a space for more than selfies. “They should educate themselves on DEA—diversity, equity, and inclusion. Given their awareness, it’s vital for them to support causes and organizations that resonate with them.”
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and in India, the stigma around seeking mental health support lingers. Aman stresses the importance of seeking help if life feels overwhelming. “There’s no shame in seeking therapy, and now there are so many avenues available, both online and offline,” she points out. Observing the immense peer pressure among youth, especially online, she advocates for kindness towards oneself and others. Aman also urges parents to support their children through all of life’s challenges, noting the heavy familial expectations often placed on Indian youth. “Let them find themselves and live according to what makes them happy,” she asserts.
When discussing the gender pay gap in the Indian film industry, Aman acknowledges that while the conversation has started, the journey towards equality is still long. “It’s a patriarchal society, and films are generally written for and about men.
. The business of cinema revolves around leading men, resulting in higher pay cheques for them,” she explains. She emphasizes that the struggle for equal pay is a global issue, not just confined to India or Bollywood.
Reflecting on her illustrious career, Aman shares glimpses into her unconventional background, which influenced her choice of roles in films. Born to a Hindu mother and a Muslim father, who later separated, Aman grew up with a German Protestant stepfather. Her educational achievements led her to southern California, the epicenter of the Flower Power movement. These diverse experiences shaped her worldview, enabling her to take on challenging roles with conviction. “When I was offered parts that were unusual or had shades of grey, I could take them up with conviction,” she notes, referencing iconic roles in films like “Haré Rama Haré Krishna” and “Roti Kapada Aur Makaan.”
Aman’s Instagram posts frequently make headlines, often prompting reactions from other celebrities. When asked if this digital age spotlight reminds her of the tabloid circuses of the 1970s, she laughs and acknowledges the similarity. “It does take me back to those days when everything was all over the place. But I’ve learned to accept it. As the saying goes, ‘logon ka kaam hai kehna’ (people will talk). Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and so am I,” she states gracefully.
On her upcoming film “Bun Tikki,” Aman shares her excitement about reuniting with Shabana Azmi and working alongside Abhay Deol. She reminisces about the fun she had in her earlier collaborations with Azmi in “Ishk Ishk Ishk” (1971) and “Ashanti” (1982). “Bun Tikki” focuses on Abhay Deol’s character and his young son, with Azmi playing the grandmother and Aman’s role remaining a delightful surprise. “At this point in my career, I don’t want to prove anything to anybody. I just want to take on roles that bring me joy and don’t exhaust me,” she concludes.
Zeenat Aman continues to inspire with her timeless grace, insightful perspectives, and unwavering commitment to advocacy, proving that her star power extends far beyond the silver screen.
