Bollywood Superstar Calls for Change
Aamir Khan, a name synonymous with groundbreaking cinema in India, is currently promoting Laapataa Ladies for an Oscar nomination. In a recent interaction, the actor took a firm stand against the patriarchal themes prevalent in mainstream Bollywood, lamenting how they hinder progress and push societal attitudes backward by decades.
“Patriarchy Has Many Faces”
Khan candidly discussed the varied ways patriarchy infiltrates cinema. “Some people endorse it overtly, while others promote it subtly,” he remarked. Highlighting the cultural impact of films, he emphasized the need for Bollywood to break free from these dated narratives. “It’s disheartening to see cinema glorify male dominance in ways that shape societal norms negatively,” he added.
Influenced by Strong Women
Sharing a personal perspective, Khan credited the strong women in his life for shaping his worldview. “I grew up with remarkable women—my mother, grandmother, sisters, and both my ex-wives. Maybe that’s why I never felt threatened as a man. Strong women bring positivity, not competition,” he explained. With his signature humor, he corrected himself mid-sentence, chuckling as he mentioned “ex-wives.”
Artistic Choices Rooted in Responsibility
While Khan’s filmography often leans towards socially conscious themes, the actor clarified that his priority remains entertainment. “I don’t actively seek out scripts with a message. But if a story aligns with my values and has something meaningful to say, I naturally gravitate toward it,” he said. His belief in cinema’s dual purpose—entertainment and enlightenment—has driven his choices in films like Taare Zameen Par and PK.
A New Chapter at 59
Following a reflective hiatus after Laal Singh Chaddha, Khan is ready to take on new challenges. His upcoming film, Sitaare Zameen Par, showcases his unwavering commitment to meaningful storytelling. As he contemplates his future, Khan shared, “I hope to remain productive until 70, but life is unpredictable. I want to make every project count.”
