In 2008, Aamir Khan made a powerful directorial debut with Taare Zameen Par. The emotional film about a dyslexic child won hearts and became a blockbuster hit. It also bagged the Best Film award at the 53rd Filmfare Awards. Many fans and critics praised Aamir for his direction. But was he really the director of the movie?
According to Amole Gupte, the film’s original writer and creative director, the real story is quite different. Amole had written Taare Zameen Par and worked on the concept for several years. He claims that he was the one who started the film and even began shooting it. But things changed when Aamir Khan joined the project.
Amole Gupte Wanted Akshaye Khanna for the Lead Role
In an interview, Amole Gupte shared that he had planned to cast Akshaye Khanna in the lead role. He asked Aamir Khan to help him set up a meeting with Khanna so he could narrate the script. But before doing that, Aamir wanted to hear the story himself.
After listening to the script, Aamir was so impressed that he wanted to be a part of the film and also produce it under his banner. Amole agreed, and the two began working together. They shot the film for around 109 days.
The Surprise Announcement That Caused a Rift
Things took a dramatic turn at the film’s wrap-up party. According to Amole, Aamir Khan suddenly announced himself as the director of the movie. This shocked Amole, who until then believed he was the one directing the film. He was hurt and surprised by this unexpected declaration.
Amole shared his side of the story in an old interview with Hindustan Times. He said, “There was no question of not liking the edited version because my wife Deepa was editing the material in Panchgani as we were shooting. We were all very proud of the film. Then, we had a wrap-up party. And that’s when Aamir announced he was the director of the film. That’s when I got to know of his intentions.”
When asked how this betrayal affected him, Amole added, “Where did I go wrong? Had I not been there throughout the shooting for every take, including Aamir’s wonderful performance, I’d have understood that I’ve gone wrong somewhere. But I’ve enacted lines for all the actors in Taare Zameen Par. It hurt a lot. But I didn’t want a confrontation.”
Aamir Khan Returns with Sitaare Zameen Par
Despite the old controversy, Aamir Khan is now working on a spiritual sequel to Taare Zameen Par titled Sitaare Zameen Par. This time, R.S. Prasanna is directing the movie. The film is expected to hit the big screen on June 20, 2025.
It remains to be seen whether Sitaare Zameen Par will match the emotional depth and success of the original film. Fans are excited and curious to see how the sequel will turn out, especially after the strong impact of Taare Zameen Par.
For more such updates, stay tuned to DNA Bollywood!
