Aamir Khan, often referred to as the “Perfectionist” of Bollywood, is a name that resonates with excellence, innovation, and dedication in the Indian film industry. An accomplished actor, producer, and director, Aamir Khan’s contributions have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema and the hearts of millions. Aamir Khan made his acting debut as a child artist in the film “Yaadon Ki Baaraat” (1973) at 8. However, his official entry into Hindi cinema as a leading man came with the experimental film “Holi” (1984). His second film, “Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak” (1988), directed by his cousin Mansoor Khan, catapulted him to overnight stardom.
Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, “Lagaan” is a cinematic masterpiece that fuses Aamir Khan’s remarkable acting with a compelling narrative. Khan’s portrayal of Bhuvan, a village leader who leads his team in a high-stakes cricket match against British colonizers, embodies determination and courage. The film’s period setting, powerful performances, and gripping storyline resonated with Indian and international audiences. “Lagaan” received critical acclaim and secured an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. Its box office success was a testament to Aamir Khan’s ability to choose artistically fulfilling and commercially appealing roles.
Aamir Khan’s foray into producing also saw him starring in Farhan Akhtar’s directorial debut, “Dil Chahta Hai.” The film’s modern and relatable depiction of friendship, love, and coming-of-age resonated with the youth. Aamir’s portrayal of the free-spirited Aakash was a refreshing departure from his previous roles and showcased his versatility. “Dil Chahta Hai” earned critical acclaim and found favour with audiences, further cementing Aamir Khan’s status as a bankable star.
In “Rang De Basanti,” directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, Aamir Khan played the role of Daljit “DJ” Singh, a young and rebellious character. The film’s poignant narrative, which intertwines past and present, allowed Aamir to showcase his acting depth. His performance as DJ, alongside an ensemble cast, added emotional resonance to the film’s exploration of patriotism and activism. “Rang De Basanti” was a critical success and performed exceptionally well at the box office.
In Rajkumar Hirani’s “3 Idiots,” Aamir Khan plays the role of Rancho, a free-thinking engineering student who challenges the conventional education system. The film’s humour, heart, and thought-provoking themes struck a chord with audiences across generations. Khan’s charismatic portrayal of Rancho added a layer of relatability and charm, contributing to the film’s massive box-office success. “3 Idiots” became one of the highest-grossing films in Indian cinema history and solidified Aamir’s reputation as a versatile actor.
Aamir Khan’s dedication and commitment were fully displayed in “Dangal,” where he portrayed real-life wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat. The film showcased his physical transformation, emotional depth, and intensity for the role. Aamir’s portrayal of a father who trains his daughters to become wrestling champions resonated with audiences, resulting in critical acclaim and exceptional box-office performance. “Dangal” became one of the highest-grossing Indian films globally, further establishing Aamir Khan’s cinematic prowess.
Aamir Khan is in talks to headline the Hindi remake of the 2018 Spanish film Campeones, which follows an arrogant drunkard coach training intellectually disabled people. The film, directed by Shubh Mangal Saavdhan, is reportedly set to star Ranbir Kapoor. Khan has previously stated he will not appear in the Indian adaptation but will still be the film’s producer. Salman Khan was approached by Khan for a role, but plans did not materialize, leading to the project being given to Kapoor.