/mayapuri/media/post_attachments/mashable_in/seo/default/zeenat_t2yc.jpg "How Zeenat Aman Became Rupa in Satyam Shivam Sundaram – Actress Shares the Story")
Veteran actress Zeenat Aman recently took to Instagram to share a fascinating behind-the-scenes story about her journey to becoming ‘Rupa’ in Raj Kapoor’s 1978 film Satyam Shivam Sundaram. Known for her glamorous and bold image, Zeenat was not Raj Kapoor’s first choice for the role. However, determined to prove herself, the actress went the extra mile to secure the part.
The Beginning: A Chance during Vakeel Babu
Zeenat recalled that around 1976, she was working with Raj Kapoor on Vakeel Babu, where Kapoor played the lead, and she starred opposite Shashi Kapoor. During this time, Raj Kapoor would often discuss his upcoming film Satyam Shivam Sundaram. The plot revolved around a man who falls in love with a woman’s voice but struggles to accept her physical appearance.
Although Kapoor was excited about the film, Zeenat noticed that he never considered her for the role of Rupa. “I knew my modern image with mini-skirts and boots didn’t fit his idea of the village girl,” Zeenat said. Frustrated by his reluctance, she decided to take matters into her own hands.
The Bold Move: Dressing as Rupa to Impress Raj Kapoor
Zeenat explained how she found a way to convince the director. Knowing that Kapoor spent most of his time at a cottage inside the R.K. Studios, she devised a plan. One evening, after wrapping up her shoot early, Zeenat transformed herself into the village girl Rupa.
She wore a ghagra-choli, braided her hair with a parandi, and even glued tissue paper to her face to create the appearance of scars. With her look complete, she went straight to Kapoor’s cottage. When his assistant John opened the door, Zeenat confidently said, “Tell sir that Rupa has come.”
The Gold Coins and Raj Kapoor’s Approval
In the second part of her Instagram post, Zeenat shared what happened next. Kapoor was delighted to see her dedication. He admired her effort and burst into laughter, pleased that she was willing to go to such lengths for the role. “He was so impressed that someone like me could transform into a village girl,” Zeenat wrote.
Overwhelmed by her commitment, Kapoor made a phone call, and within 20 minutes, his wife Krishna Kapoor arrived with a purse full of gold coins. Kapoor handed the coins to Zeenat as her signing amount, marking her official selection as Rupa.
A Memorable Role with a Few Hiccups
Zeenat mentioned that she kept the gold coins for years until they were stolen from her home. However, she treasures the memory more than the coins themselves. The actress also revealed that the glue she used to create the scars caused skin issues, which took weeks to heal. Despite the challenges, she cherishes the experience, calling it one of the most meaningful moments of her career.
Zeenat Aman’s heartfelt post came as a tribute to Raj Kapoor, whose 100th birth anniversary will be celebrated in December. Her story not only highlights the challenges actors face behind the scenes but also showcases the passion and determination needed to bring characters to life.
