From Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak to Dangal, Aamir Khan reflects on his journey, struggles, family life, and unforgettable moments in Bollywood.
Mumbai: In an intimate and candid conversation at Aamir Khan Productions, Bollywood icon Aamir Khan sat down with journalist Rohan Dua to talk about his life like never before. From his earliest days in cinema to becoming one of India’s most respected actors, Aamir shared deeply personal stories about his films, family, and philosophies.
Reminiscing about his humble beginnings in Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak and the impact of Taare Zameen Par, Aamir revealed that despite global fame, he still lives in his childhood neighborhood of Pali Hill. He credited his mother, Zeenat Hussain, as the biggest guiding force in his life.
Speaking about his career, Aamir fondly recalled working with the leading ladies of the 1990s like Juhi Chawla and Madhuri Dixit, while admitting to battling insecurities about his height (5’6”) in an industry dominated by taller stars. “I’m proud—Tom Cruise and Shah Rukh Khan are the same height too,” he laughed.
The actor also opened up about the challenges he faced during Sarfarosh (1999–2000), especially in portraying sensitive issues related to Pakistan under the watchful eye of censors. He emphasized how important it was for him to stay true to the story.
Looking back at the glory days of Lagaan, Aamir shared how close the film came to winning an Oscar in 2001. “In Los Angeles, the dream felt so close you could touch it,” he recalled, reflecting on the heartbreak and pride of the moment.
On the personal front, Aamir revealed glimpses of his life as a father to Azad, Ira, and Junaid. He highlighted how he raises them without the weight of stardom. His eldest son, Junaid, he said, lives simply—taking Ola, Uber, and even Kerala buses like any ordinary young man.
Aamir also didn’t shy away from sharing his thoughts on co-stars and colleagues, from Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan to Rani Mukerji and Manisha Koirala. He recalled the golden era of Bollywood music, reflecting on the legendary rivalry between Kumar Sanu and Udit Narayan—though he admitted with a smile that he admires both.
The actor walked down memory lane with anecdotes from his most iconic films—PK, Dangal, 3 Idiots, Rang De Basanti, Fanaa—bringing in a mix of laughter, nostalgia, and heartfelt wisdom.
This rare heart-to-heart was less about stardom and more about the man behind the roles: a thoughtful father, a passionate artist, and a grounded human being who continues to inspire generations.