While both Amitabh Bachchan and Zeenat Aman have enjoyed long, successful careers, each leaving an indelible mark on the industry, they’ve also shared the screen in numerous blockbuster films, solidifying their status as a golden duo. From Don (1978), The Great Gambler (1979) and Dostana (1980) to Roti Kapada Aur Makaan (1974), Laawaris (1981), Pukar (1983) and Mahaan (1983), the list of films in which they collaborated isn’t small.

Nonetheless, their friendship goes back even further, to a time before they had broken into the industry and were just budding actors seeking opportunities in Bombay. In a 2017 interview with Filmfare, Zeenat shared that since Amitabh’s brother Ajitabh called him “Da,” his friends, including Zeenat, took to calling him that as well. Belonging to the same friend circle, Amitabh and Zeenat often spent time together, meeting at friends’ homes, chatting, enjoying good food and celebrating life. Zeenat further mentioned that even back then, Big B showed a passion for music and had a great sense of humor. Incidentally, both Amitabh and Zeenat made their film debuts just a year apart — he in Saat Hindustani (1969) and she in The Evil Within (1970).

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A post shared by Zeenat Aman (@thezeenataman)

Reflecting on his dedication and thirst for perfection, Zeenat Aman recalled the filming of the song “Khaike Paan Banaraswala” at Mehboob Studio. “It was the last add-on to the film. He was so keen about giving his best that he kept asking for ‘one more’ shot until it was absolutely perfect.” Penned by Salim–Javed and helmed by Chandra Barot, Don went on to become one of the biggest hits in both their careers.

Zeenat also praised Amitabh for his grace under pressure. She said, “He’s inspired us to deal with every situation in life with grace and dignity. As you know, no public figure is ever populously white. Whether it was his political inclination or the fallout of that, or his relationships with some of his co-stars where he was accused of many things… he dealt with everything with great dignity. He has earned every bit of the respect and admiration he enjoys.”

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