Bollywood icon Aamir Khan hosted a special screening of his recently released film Sitaare Zameen Par, which was attended by Eknath Shinde and several dignitaries. The film, centered on children with neurodivergent conditions, is already winning hearts and sparking important conversations around inclusive education in India.
Speaking passionately at the event, Aamir revealed the emotional journey of making the film and the deep impact it had on him. “It’s a very important social theme,” he said. “I’m hopeful that if the Maharashtra government brings some dynamic changes to the education system for children, it can bring about a real transformation in the state and in our country.”
Reflecting on the current state of special education, Aamir expressed a heartfelt concern about the segregation of neurodivergent children from a young age: “When a child is born, we start separating them right from childhood. We send them to different schools. This leads to two losses—not only does it impact the special child, but also the so-called ‘normal’ children. Because they don’t grow up together, they miss out on learning so much from them. These kids are so loving, so sensitive, always happy… and those qualities are something we all could learn from.”
He added, with conviction: “My dream is that eventually, in our country, there should be no need for special schools. All children should study together in regular schools. That’s where real inclusion in society will begin.”
Aamir emphasized that Sitaare Zameen Par was made with the intent to foster empathy and understanding: “That’s why we made this film—to help people develop understanding. I’m not blaming anyone. We are all a result of what we’ve learned as children. It’s important for people to experience how these individuals live and see the world. This film offers a different perspective. People are loving it, they’re loving Sitaare more than they are loving Aamir Khan!”
When asked whether it was more challenging to make a film with 10 neurodivergent children, Aamir smiled: “It took just as much effort, maybe even less. In my 35-year career, I’ve realized that working with these 10 individuals was actually easier. They have no ego, they come on time, they’re always happy, and they’re so excited to work. It was a learning experience for us. Making this film was easier because these 10 people were amazing and dynamic.”
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