Aditya Pancholi’s wife Zarina Wahab finally reveals details about Raj Kapoor’s shocking casteist remark against her: ‘He compared me with..’

Zarina Wahab recalled an incident from her student days, where she had the opportunity to meet the legendary Raj Kapoor. Read on to find more details.

Zarina Wahab, a renowned actress in the Indian film industry, has been a significant figure in both Bollywood and Malayalam cinema, with a career that spans several decades. She is admired for her versatile roles and remarkable performances, which have earned her a special place in the hearts of audiences. Known for her grace and talent, Zarina has worked in numerous successful films, leaving a lasting impact on Indian cinema. Recently, Zarina shared an intriguing and personal story from her early days in the industry, during an interview with a prominent media house.

In the interview, Zarina recalled an incident from her student days, when she was studying film and aspiring to build a career in acting. She mentioned that, at the time, she had the opportunity to meet the legendary Raj Kapoor, the showman of Indian cinema, who was known for his larger-than-life films and vision. It was an event that Zarina remembers vividly, but it also became a defining moment for her in terms of how she navigated the complexities of the film industry.

Zarina explained that, during a visit to Raj Kapoor’s farmhouse, he made a comment that left her stunned. As she and other students were discussing with him, he used a casteist term to refer to her, which she found inappropriate and offensive. Zarina, who had gone to meet the legendary filmmaker dressed up and eager to make a good impression, was taken aback by his choice of words. Although she was hurt by the remark, she chose not to react in that moment. The young actress, unfamiliar with why he would say such a thing, opted to remain silent, but the words stayed with her.

However, as Zarina was preparing to leave the farmhouse, Raj Kapoor approached her and asked if she understood why he had used the term. Zarina, still unsure, replied that she didn’t know. Raj Kapoor then explained that the reason he had used the term was because he said the same thing about the legendary actress Waheeda Rehman. He clarified that it was a compliment, as he regarded Zarina as someone of the same stature and grace as Waheeda Rehman, one of the finest and most respected actresses of that era.

Upon hearing this, Zarina’s perception changed entirely. Instead of feeling offended, she understood that Raj Kapoor had compared her to Waheeda Rehman, a comparison that made her feel deeply honoured. She realised that the intention behind the remark was not derogatory but rather a form of admiration. Waheeda Rehman was, and continues to be, a highly esteemed actress in Indian cinema, and for Zarina, being likened to her by such an influential figure as Raj Kapoor was a moment of validation.

Zarina went on to explain in her interview with Lehre Retro that when she first shared this story with the public, it was misunderstood by many. People misinterpreted her account, thinking she was trying to cause controversy or claim offense. Zarina clarified that her intention had never been to create drama or highlight the negative aspects of her experience. Rather, she was simply sharing a significant moment from her early career that shaped her journey in the industry.