Aamir Khan Refuses Dangal Release in Pakistan Over National Symbols

Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, known for his impactful performances and socially relevant films, recently made headlines by revealing why his blockbuster film, Dangal, did not release in Pakistan. This revelation came during his appearance on the talk show Aap Ki Adalat, hosted by Rajat Sharma, where the actor discussed various aspects of his career and the film’s journey. Dangal has been a colossal success, earning over ₹2,000 crore globally, with a significant portion of its earnings coming from its release in China.

Aamir’s Decision Against Compromising National Integrity

In his discussion, Khan shared that the Pakistan Censor Board demanded the removal of the Indian national flag and the national anthem from the film before granting it a release. He stated that he was faced with a dilemma: “They asked us to remove the Indian tricolour and the national anthem that plays after Geeta Phogat’s victory, or they would not pass the film.” This request left Khan with no choice but to decline the release in Pakistan, stating emphatically, “Anyone who tells us to remove our Indian flag and national anthem — I have nothing to do with them.” His swift decision aimed at preserving national pride over potential financial gains, emphasizing his commitment to India’s sovereignty.

The Impact of Censorship in Cinema

Aamir Khan’s experience is not an isolated incident within Bollywood. Censorship has long been a contentious issue affecting filmmakers in India, particularly regarding how other countries, including Pakistan, are portrayed. Historically, the Indian Censor Board has advised filmmakers to be cautious, often suggesting euphemistic terms like “neighbouring country” in place of direct mentions of Pakistan.

In a stroke of boldness, Aamir took a stand with his 1999 film Sarfarosh, becoming the first mainstream Indian actor to directly reference both Pakistan and terrorism in a storyline, which instigated significant backlash from across the border. This established a precedent for filmmakers where national sentiments and relationships between India and Pakistan heavily influence the cinema landscape.

Dangal: A Cultural Phenomenon

Dangal, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, is based on the true story of Mahavir Singh Phogat, who trained his daughters, Geeta and Babita, to become world-class wrestlers despite facing immense societal hurdles. The film showcased not only the struggle against gender stereotypes but also reflected India’s burgeoning sports culture. Aamir Khan’s portrayal of Mahavir Singh garnered accolades, propelling the film to banking over ₹2,070.3 crore at the box office.

Aamir’s Future Projects

While discussing Dangal, Aamir also touched upon his upcoming film, Sitaare Zameen Par, which is positioned as a spiritual sequel to his beloved 2007 film Taare Zameen Par. Slated for release on June 21, the film features Genelia D’Souza in a prominent role, and aims to explore new themes that continue his legacy of addressing socially relevant issues through cinema.

Conclusion

Aamir Khan’s steadfast refusal to compromise on national pride in the face of censorship is a testament to his character and commitment to his work. As Bollywood continues to navigate the complex socio-political landscape of India and its neighbors, Khan’s decisions serve as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with storytelling. In an age where films are not only entertainment but also a powerful medium for social change, Aamir’s choices highlight the critical balance between artistic expression and cultural sensitivity.