Veteran actress Zeenat Aman recently took to Instagram to share nostalgic photos from her 1974 film Manoranjan, sparking a conversation about moral policing in Bollywood. The post caught the attention of global star Priyanka Chopra, who chimed in with her thoughts on the issue.
Zeenat Aman, known for her bold roles in the 70s, posted a series of images showcasing her in “flirtatious and sexy” dresses from the film. She reminisced about the challenges she faced from the moral police during the release of Manoranjan. The film, directed by Shammi Kapoor, featured Zeenat as a sex worker named Nisha, a character she described as “sexually liberated” and “financially independent.”
In her caption, Zeenat wrote, “If I’ve had a steady companion through my career, it’s been the moral police. And, my goodness, did they have a field day with this one! Manoranjan defied existing conventions. It was an adaptation of the fabulous 1963 American comedy Irma Le Douce, and it featured me in the starring role of Nisha. A sex worker with a sense of dignity, independence and humour.” She mentioned the film was Shammi Kapoor’s directorial debut, had RD Burman as music director, and Sanjeev Kumar as the leading man, adding the producer FC Mehra was a family friend. Zeenat said they shot the film entirely in studios in Mumbai.
Zeenat’s post highlighted the film’s unique approach to portraying a sex worker with dignity and humor. She described her character, Nisha, as unapologetic about her profession, adding that the role allowed her to explore a sexually liberated and independent persona. She also recalled a “titillating shower sequence” in the song “Chori Chori Solah Singar,” which was sung by Asha Bhosle.
Reacting to Zeenat’s post, Priyanka Chopra commented, “Moral police is still around and will continue to be around it seems! But you are beyond.” Priyanka’s comment underscores the ongoing issue of moral policing in the entertainment industry, even decades after Zeenat’s experiences.
Fashion designer Manish Malhotra also praised Zeenat, saying, “You look amazing in the film I loved the music too.” Actor Archana Puran Singh shared her memories of watching Manoranjan in a small-town theater, expressing her admiration for the film and its impact on her as a young viewer.
Zeenat’s post serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by actresses in the 70s who dared to take on unconventional roles. Despite the moral policing, Zeenat’s portrayal of Nisha in Manoranjan remains a significant milestone in Bollywood’s history.
Following her troubled marriage to actor Mazhar Khan in 1985, Zeenat began appearing in fewer films. They remained married until his death in 1998. With Mazhar, she had two sons – Azaan Khan and Zahaan Khan. She will soon be making her acting comeback with Showstopper.
Zeenat’s reflections on her career and the moral policing she faced resonate with many in the industry today. Her post not only celebrates her past work but also sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced by actresses who push boundaries and challenge societal norms.
As Priyanka Chopra pointed out, the moral police is still very much present, but Zeenat’s legacy continues to inspire and empower.
