Ankur Rana's masterpiece, ‘Smoke Up Bolly’ pays homage to the iconic Zeenat Aman, capturing the bold and beautiful essence of her legacy. Inspired by her role as ‘Jasbir’ in Hare Rama Hare Krishna. Zeenat Aman, is known for her bombshell image and as the classic femme fatale facade.  Revolutionising Bollywood with her portrayal of powerful, progressive female characters, particularly in Dum Maro Dum, Zeenat became the ultimate muse of the era, symbolizing the spirit of the avant-garde woman of India in the late ‘70s and ‘80s.

The use of vivid, psychedelic colours in the artwork reflects the allure and glamour of Bollywood during her reign, where electric hues mirror her dynamic presence on the silver screen. The rolling hues across the canvas echo the rhythm of her performances, capturing her exuberant spirit. The pipe, representing the Bollywood industry itself, emphasizes her central role in shaping it and further embodies her indomitable confidence. The smoke rising from the pipe delicately weaves through the composition, symbolizing Zeenat’s golden heart and her profound contribution to Indian cinema. This fluid motion connects her softness and boldness, just as blooming flowers in the painting reflect the duality of her persona — tender yet fearless, soft yet strong. Through this artwork, Rana portrays her as the epitome of strength, beauty, and empowerment, with a lasting influence that still resonates in the hearts of audiences today.