In an online post, Zeenat Aman lamented the lack of visibility of older women in the public eye. She also told stories about women who had helped her. Zeenat Aman has been revealing different sides of herself on social media since her debut in February. She has been sharing old photographs and anecdotes from her life and speaking out on issues such as ageing. In her most recent post, the veteran actor recently spoke out about the lack of visibility of older women in the public eye. She also told stories about the remarkable older women who had helped her throughout her life. Kajol and Manisha Koirala, both actors, commented on Zeenat’s post.
On Thursday, Zeenat noted on Instagram, “We see very few older women in the public eye. It’s not something I thought about when I was young, but now that I am silver-haired, I feel their absence. It’s a puzzling phenomenon simply because older women mould, protect and nurture us in many ways worthy of celebration. There is just no substitute for the wisdom of experience and years.”
She said, “My entire life, I have known older women who have anchored me. My mother, yes, but others too. My friend Khadija whose generosity towards me was unsurpassed and who, being widowed young, displayed an inner steel that inspired me. My dear, ever-patient Sartaj, who is always there to make me laugh, but who was also by my side during days of intense grief. Kavi is steadfast as a rock and cradles our friendship even when I am neglectful. My stepmother Shamim aunty, who doted on my sons and to whom I could entrust them no matter the hour… How different and colourless life would have been without their influence.”
The veteran actor also asked readers to share their stories of those women who influenced them. She added, “When you sweep your eyes across the landscape of your life, do you not also find the influence of older women? I would be interested to know your stories. Stories of how a mother, aunt, grandmother, sister, or woman friend carried you in your time of hesitance or need. If you don’t have a story to share, this post may serve as a reminder to drop a (red heart emoji) to an older woman who enriches your life.”
Kajol responded with a fire emoji and the words, “So well said!” Manisha, on the other hand, simply replied with a fire emoji to her post.
