‘I will not become….: director started abusing Zeenat Aman after she said no to…, the director was…, film was…

One of Bollywood’s most iconic and trailblazing actresses of the 1970s and ’80s, Zeenat Aman redefined glamour and boldness on-screen at a time when few dared to break the mould. The diva is known for her unconventional roles and striking screen presence. She became a trendsetter with films like Hare Rama Hare Krishna, Satyam Shivam Sundaram, and Qurbani.

In a recent candid conversation with Shemaroo Lifestyle, the actress shared a poignant moment from her early days in Bollywood. The actress, a reigning icon of the ’70s with blockbusters like Hare Rama Hare Krishna, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan and Dharmveer, shared that she once turned down a role in Feroz Khan’s Dharmatma and paid for it with an unexpected verbal backlash.

“Feroz Khan had offered me a second lead role in Dharmatma, which I declined. He got furious and later called me, hurling abuses. I was shocked. We didn’t speak for a long time after that,” she revealed.

Did the two ever reconcile?

According to the reports, despite the sour exchange, fate had other plans. Years later, Feroz Khan returned with another offer, this time with a lead role. The film? The cult classic Qurbani.

“He called again and said, ‘This time it’s the lead role, Zeenat.’ He was making Qurbani, and I said yes,” she recalled.

The decision proved game-changing. Qurbani went on to become a massive hit, and Zeenat’s role was hailed as one of her most iconic. Their professional dynamic warmed up post-release.

“After Qurbani, he started calling me chhoti begum,” she added with a smile.

Was there a personal connection as well?

Interestingly, yes. Zeenat Aman was briefly married to Feroz Khan’s brother, actor Sanjay Khan. Their relationship, however, was short-lived and ended on a bitter note. Although her personal and professional journeys often intersected, Zeenat emerged as one of Bollywood’s most enduring names.

From slammed phones to silver screen success, Zeenat Aman’s journey with Feroz Khan proves that sometimes, the biggest hits begin with the loudest “no.”

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