In an unexpected yet heartfelt social media post, veteran Bollywood star and fashion icon Zeenat Aman took a walk down memory lane, shedding light on her longstanding fashion association with the legendary Bhanu Athaiya. The actress shared her candid thoughts on fashion and revealed her personal style preferences, distinguishing herself from the typical image of a high-fashion diva.
Earlier this week, Zeenat Aman took to Instagram to post a photo of herself dressed in an earthy-toned sculpted 3D dress. With a touch of humor, she mentioned she was channeling her best “Komondor” impression—a nod to the unique Hungarian dog breed known for its corded coat. This playful remark set the tone for a deeper reflection on her illustrious fashion journey.
In her Instagram caption, Zeenat fondly reminisced about Bhanu Athaiya, India’s first Oscar winner, who had the remarkable task of designing costumes for her in over 15 films, including the cinematic milestone “Satyam Shivam Sundaram.” Aman expressed, “I’ve been blessed by the hand of many a genius in my life. The very best in not just cinema, but also fashion. The formidably talented Bhanu Athaiya, India’s first Academy Award winner, designed my costumes for over 15 movies including Satyam Shivam Sundaram.”
Elaborating on Athaiya’s meticulous craftsmanship, Zeenat recalled, “She was prolific and meticulous, and soon after our first partnership had a mannequin made to my measurements. It would stand in her studio, and on this inanimate bust, she would actualise the fantastical ideas that appeared in her mind.” Zeenat praised the unique working relationship they developed, highlighting how she only needed occasional fittings thanks to Athaiya’s precision.
The tribute did not stop there; she continued, “No other designer in my life has come close to creating outfits for me that were as comfortable as they were sensual.” This acknowledgment not only elevated Bhanu Athaiya’s status but also emphasized the unparalleled comfort and elegance that her designs brought to the screen.
Switching gears, Aman shed light on her true self, an image far removed from the glamorous roles she epitomized on screen. “I am constantly tickled by my persona as a woman of high fashion. Those who know me know that I am quite the casual dresser.
. One who finds most designer outfits unwearable!”
Her Instagram post further delved into a personal anecdote involving a wealthy friend who often gifted her haute couture outfits. Aman narrated, “An impossibly wealthy friend of mine, with museumesque mansions in Dubai and London, would routinely gift me haute couture and then rue the fact that their fate was to moulder in my wardrobe.” This candid confession underscored the irony of her relationship with luxury fashion—a stark contrast to the high-fashion avatar perceived by the public.
Drawing attention to another poignant point, Aman paid tribute to her mother’s sartorial legacy. “It’s an unfortunate fate shared by my most prized heirlooms. My mother’s exquisite saris, the most meaningful clothing I own, also languish in the depths of my closet,” she admitted. The emotional weight of this revelation not only showcased her deep-rooted connection to her family’s heritage but also hinted at a possible future where these heirlooms might find a new lease of life. “Perhaps one day I will have the wherewithal to wear them or repurpose them into new outfits more suitable to my taste,” she mused.
As she concluded her Instagram message, Zeenat Aman once again brought humor to her narrative, “Anyway, here I am. Giving my best Komondor (it’s a dog breed, look it up and tell me if I’m wrong) impression. All in the name of fashion.” This light-hearted end to her reflective post resonated with her followers, displaying her ability to blend earnest memories with a touch of whimsy.
On the professional front, Zeenat Aman continues to captivate audiences. Fans can look forward to seeing her alongside Bhumi Pednekar, Ishaan Khatter, Sakshi Tanwar, Nora Fatehi, Milind Soman, and Dino Morea in the upcoming Netflix series ‘The Royals’. This star-studded ensemble promises to bring yet another unforgettable performance, adding to her extensive and varied career.
With inputs from IANS, Zeenat Aman’s latest revelations on social media offer a fascinating glimpse into her fashion journey, marking her as an icon who gracefully bridges the classic and contemporary worlds while staying true to her authentic self.
