Fresh faces and fleeting trends dominated 2023, but the year also belonged to the comeback legends of Bollywood, who proved that talent and style know no age limit.
From stunning Instagram debuts and fashion shoots to silver screen and OTT triumphs, these veterans redefined “comeback” by embracing the digital age, reclaiming the spotlight, and showcasing their relevance even today. They showed that the curtains never really came down for them.
Here’s a look at some of the stars who demonstrated that so-called ‘boomers’ can make a bang that resonates across generations.
Zeenat Aman’s Instagram debut
Zeenat Aman, the screen-scorching diva of the 1970s, set hearts aflutter with her Instagram debut this year. Her feed is a delightful blend of nostalgic glimpses from her acting career, candid snapshots from her day-to-day life, and even some wise life advice thrown in.
Her Instagram posts have been quickly going viral, and fans just can’t get enough of her insightful, witty captions. They are pure gold— from modelling a look she calls “scarecrow chic” as a counterpoint to ‘sexy’ fashion, to posing in a bun and glasses with the caption, “Look of the day: The stern judge who disapproves (of) the provocative images that Zeenat Aman posts”.
In just a few months the veteran has gained over 5.5 lakh followers and counting.
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Rekha’s first Vogue photoshoot
Timeless beauty Rekha reinforced her status as a fashion icon at the age of 68 when she graced the cover of Vogue Arabia in July. Dazzling in regal attire, the shoot made headlines not just for the opulent pictures but for her aura, confidence, and piercing gaze.
From a Vintage brocade jacket paired with Mughal-inspired headgear, to a deep red velvet gown with a Peshwa hat, to a bold peacock-inspired look, each ensemble showcased her impeccable style. Manish Malhotra designed the outfits, but Rekha herself was the “true mastermind” of the shoot, according to a Vogue Arabia Instagram post. If Malhotra played the role of the “wise, patient pujari” who made her dreams come to life, Rekha once again emerged as India’s reigning fashion goddess.
Dalip Tahil’s Instagram emergence
Actor Dalip Tahil, known for his versatile roles, has a tongue-in-cheek disclaimer on his Instagram page: “I’m too old to be doing this shit”. As it turns out, he isn’t. Ever since he jumped on to the Insta bandwagon in 2023, the dapper 71-year-old has been entertaining fans of all ages with his humorous reels, throwback photos, heartfelt messages and quotes, and behind-the-scenes peeks into his recent projects.
Tahil effortlessly strikes up conversations with his younger fans too. Case in point: when he challenged his Gen Z followers to sum up “situationship” in one line, he got 202 responses. He gives a nod and a wink to his new Insta avatar as “Daddy Tahil”, but he also points out that “sher booda jaroor ho gaya hai, par shikar karna nahin bhoola (The lion might have aged, but he hasn’t forgotten how to hunt).”
Sharmila Tagore’s return to films
After a 13-year hiatus, veteran actor Sharmila Tagore made a compelling comeback to Indian cinema with her OTT debut in Disney+ Hotstar’s thought-provoking family drama Gulmohar.
The 77-year-old’s nuanced performance as the matriarch Kusum Batra, who grapples with her sexuality and strives to reclaim her own life, garnered critical acclaim and an enthusiastic response from fans. Tagore’s role also highlighted the importance of representing older characters with passions, wants, and desires on screen, and ignited a conversation about the need for seasoned actors in the industry.
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Second wind for Sunny Deol
The unpredictable nature of Bollywood’s affections was evident in 67-year-old Sunny Deol’s career trajectory. Once the embodiment of action-packed blockbusters, the ‘90s heartthrob faced a long downturn in his career in the years following the 2001 megahit Gadar. But after about two decades of largely undistinguished roles, he made a triumphant return with Gadar 2. The film shattered box office records, earning over Rs 500 crore, and re-establishing Deol’s star power.
Reflecting on his journey in an India Today interview, Deol acknowledged the highs and lows. “When Gadar was released, my stardom was at its peak. However, there was a lull in my career. But after my return with Gadar 2, it has been quite successful… regardless of someone’s age or gender, people have a smile on their faces when they see me.”
(Edited by Asavari Singh)