In the dynamic world of Bollywood, where roles and narratives are constantly evolving, actor Shabana Azmi's recent on-screen kiss with Dharmendra in "Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani" has sparked both interest and discussions. As audiences witnessed this unexpected turn of events, Azmi's portrayal challenges the conventional perception of strong women and their capacity for romantic inclinations.

The film, directed by Karan Johar, brings together the talents of Azmi and the legendary Dharmendra, creating a blend of old-world charm and contemporary storytelling. In "Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani," Azmi essays the character of Alia Bhatt's grandmother, Rani, who embarks on a journey to unravel the shared history of her grandparents. Ranveer Singh's character, Rocky, joins her on this expedition of self-discovery, leading to a relationship that defies generational norms.

The pivotal moment of the film is the kiss between Azmi and Dharmendra, a scene that has ignited conversations across generations. Azmi, at 72, openly expresses her happiness at the reception the scene has received, particularly from the younger audience. She acknowledges the surprise factor and the unexpectedness of a strong woman engaging in a romantic gesture, but she questions why this portrayal is perceived as such an anomaly.

Azmi counters the misconception that strength and romance are mutually exclusive traits. She points out that strong women are not devoid of romantic desires, and she embraces the complexity of her character, which combines strength, grace, and vulnerability. The fact that the scene resonated with audiences highlights a shift in societal attitudes, where audiences are open to exploring the multidimensional nature of characters.

The actor's candid revelations about her husband Javed Akhtar's response to the scene add depth to her perspective. She recalls that Akhtar was more concerned about her "rowdy behavior" in the theatre than the on-screen kiss, emphasizing that the kiss was not a cause for discomfort. Azmi's willingness to share this personal insight humanizes the experience and underscores the role of mutual understanding and trust in her collaboration with Johar.

Johar's directorial choices are lauded by Azmi, who acknowledges the director's encouragement and his ability to push creative boundaries. The film's success, both critically and commercially, attests to Johar's skill in presenting unconventional narratives to mainstream audiences. Azmi commends his approach, which weaves meaningful themes into entertaining stories, thereby promoting societal change without being overtly didactic.

In a pivotal scene, Azmi's character, Rani, unapologetically admits to her extramarital affair and embraces her choices without remorse. This portrayal of a woman breaking societal norms while maintaining her dignity is a testament to the film's depth and sensitivity.

Azmi's dedication to her craft is evident in her commitment to perfect her Bengali diction with the help of dialect coach and actor Husne Shabnam. The recognition she receives for her linguistic authenticity adds another layer to her performance.

Looking ahead, Azmi's involvement in upcoming projects like "Ghoomer" and "Imaginary Rain" underscores the changing landscape of Bollywood. With roles being written for actors of all ages, the industry is breaking free from the confines of ageism, opening doors for seasoned talents to shine once again.

As Azmi's contributions are celebrated at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, her filmography takes center stage, showcasing titles beyond the mainstream and familiar ones. This curation underlines the festival's commitment to highlighting the diverse aspects of her craft, offering audiences a comprehensive view of her journey.

Shabana Azmi's portrayal in "Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani" serves as a reminder that strong women are multi-dimensional, capable of embracing their romantic inclinations without compromising their strength and integrity. This portrayal resonates with changing societal attitudes and represents a significant step towards authentic representation in mainstream cinema. As Bollywood continues to evolve, Azmi's performance stands as a beacon of progress, inspiring both artists and audiences alike.