Are you ready for the high energy, thrill-a-minute ride that is sure to be Don 3? The much-awaited sequel to the blockbuster Don Franchise is gearing up for release, and you simply can't miss it. This time, Ranveer Singh is taking on the role of the charismatic Don, made famous by Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan in the previous films. But the real question on everyone's mind is: will Ranveer's Don find a worthy match in his female co-star, the "Junglee Billi"?
Zeenat Aman: The Original Junglee Billi
When you think of the ultimate junglee billi in Bollywood, one name comes to mind: Zeenat Aman. As the original sexy siren of the 70s, Zeenat embodied confidence, glamor and a free spirit on screen.
In Don (1978), Zeenat delivered an iconic performance as the daring Roma, a woman who knew what she wanted and wasn't afraid to go after it. Whether dancing at a disco in a shimmery gold jumpsuit or cruising the streets of Bombay in her convertible, Zeenat oozed style, attitude and sex appeal as Roma. Her chemistry with Amitabh Bachchan was sizzling, and their song "Khaike Paan Banaras Wala" became an instant classic.
Over 40 years later, Priyanka Chopra Jonas reprised the role of Roma in the Don sequel, but Zeenat Aman will always remain the OG junglee billi for a generation. As Ranveer Singh gears up to star in Don 3, he has some big shoes (and bell bottoms!) to fill. If the new film can capture the carefree and liberated essence of Zeenat's Roma, Ranveer may just find a worthy co-star to match wits with on screen.
Zeenat herself hopes Ranveer finds an actress who can embody the spirit of her iconic character. In her words, “I wish him the very best and hope he finds a suitable junglee billi.” One thing is for sure - whoever plays the new Roma will draw inevitable comparisons to the original queen of Bollywood, Zeenat Aman. The bar has been set high, but if any current actress can channel the bold, vivacious and fashionable Roma, she’ll gain a fan for life in Zeenat.
Priyanka Chopra: A New Generation Junglee Billi
Priyanka Chopra brought Junglee Billi to life for a new generation in the Don Series remake. As the fierce and fiery Roma, Priyanka matched Zeenat Aman's iconic portrayal of the character in the original 1978 film. Now, all eyes are on Ranveer Singh to see if he can find a leading lady to equal these two powerhouse actresses in Don 3.
Priyanka was the perfect choice to reinvent Roma. Already an established Bollywood star and former Miss World, she brought a contemporary strength and sex appeal to the role of the vengeful gangster. Her performance showcased Roma as a bold, cunning femme fatale who is more than a match for Shah Rukh Khan's Don.
Who Should Play the New Junglee Billi Opposite Ranveer?
Get ready for some serious girl power in Don 3! With Zeenat Aman and Priyanka Chopra setting the bar high for a bold, confident Junglee Billi, who could possibly match up to their legacy and share the screen with Ranveer Singh?
We need an actress with charm, talent, and that ‘it factor’ in spades. Someone who can go toe-to-toe with Ranveer and hold her own in action sequences. She should have a strong on-screen presence and not fade into the background. Most importantly, she needs to connect with modern audiences and inspire women with her self-assuredness and independence.
My Top Picks:
Alia Bhatt: This powerhouse actress has proven her versatility and would make an amazing Junglee Billi. She’s demonstrated her comedic and emotional range, as well as her ability to perform complex stunts. Alia’s bubbly yet feisty personality would be perfect for this role.
Shraddha Kapoor: Another top contender, Shraddha is a fan favorite and skilled at portraying strong, spirited female characters. She has an inherent likeability and girl-next-door quality that would make her relatable as the new Junglee Billi. Her dance skills are also on point for any potential song-and-dance numbers!
Kiara Advani: The ‘Kabir Singh’ actress has really come into her own and shown she can take on more demanding parts. Kiara has a natural charisma and enthusiasm that shines through on screen. She continues to improve with each performance and a role in ‘Don 3’ could catapult her into superstardom. Her youthful vibrancy would inject the franchise with a burst of fresh energy.
In my view, any of these talented leading ladies would make an exceptional Junglee Billi and do justice to Zeenat Aman and Priyanka Chopra’s legacies. If Ranveer finds the right partner-in-crime, their chemistry could make Don 3 a blockbuster. But that's a big if, and a lot to live up to! No matter who is chosen, one thing is certain—she’s sure to become India’s next big action heroine!
