If you thought veteran stars shy away from bold scenes, think again. Shabana Azmi just proved otherwise — and did it with elegance and a whole lot of honesty.
The kiss that took everyone by surprise in Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani wasn’t just about shock value. It was also about storytelling, and Shabana Azmi, as always, handled it like the seasoned performer she is. Now, she’s finally opened up about that moment with Dharmendra — and what really made it unforgettable.
The Scene That Had Everyone Talking
So let’s get right to it. That kiss between Shabana Azmi and Dharmendra sent social media into a frenzy when the film dropped. For many, it was unexpected — two senior actors sharing an intimate moment on screen, and doing it with such natural chemistry.
But here’s what Shabana had to say about it: “It was done and over in a second.”
Yep, just like that. No overthinking. No fuss. Just two professionals doing what the script needed — and moving on.
What Made the Moment Stand Out?
Interestingly, it wasn’t even the kiss itself that Shabana remembers most. It was the hilarious and dramatic reaction of Jaya Bachchan’s character in the film — who literally faints after witnessing it. That’s what turned the scene into a viral moment. And honestly? That added touch of humor made the whole thing feel playful rather than scandalous.
Shabana laughed while recalling it, noting how the surrounding reactions elevated what was otherwise a blink-and-you-miss-it moment.
A Masterclass in Grace, Comfort, and Commitment
Let’s be real — scenes like this can be tricky for actors of any age. But Shabana and Dharmendra, both legends in their own right, pulled it off with zero awkwardness. That’s the kind of grace that comes with experience.
And that’s also what makes Shabana Azmi such a beloved figure in Indian cinema — she never shies away from challenging or unusual roles. If the story demands it, she’s all in, no matter the genre, era, or age.
Praise for Ranveer and Alia
While everyone’s focused on the kiss, Shabana also made sure to highlight what truly moved her in the film — the performances of Alia Bhatt and Ranveer Singh. She was full of praise for Alia’s emotional vulnerability and the way she brought authenticity to even the most dramatic scenes.
But it was Ranveer Singh who really caught her attention. According to Shabana, he didn’t just bring his usual energy to the role — he went a step further, diving deep into the nuances of the character’s dialect and mannerisms. She was especially impressed with how naturally he handled the Bengali accent, showing not just commitment but genuine respect for the role.
Not Just a Cameo — A Fully Realized Character
Shabana’s role as Jamini Chatterjee wasn’t a token elder-woman appearance. She was very much a core part of the film’s emotional fabric. Her character carried complexity, history, and a quiet strength that stood out, especially in contrast to Jaya Bachchan’s more authoritarian persona.
It was refreshing to see older characters being written with such depth and dignity. And Shabana brought every layer of Jamini to life — from the unspoken regrets to the quiet rebellions, and yes, even the spark of an old flame.
The Takeaway?
This wasn’t just a kiss. It was a moment that reminded us that love, longing, and romance aren’t bound by age. That senior actors can be part of modern narratives — not just as background, but right at the heart of the story.
And most importantly, it showed us why legends like Shabana Azmi continue to shine in every role they take on.
She summed it up best: “It was a moment in the film. It served the story. And we moved on.”
That’s how you do it — with style, confidence, and a whole lot of class.
