In a recent revelation, Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, celebrated for films like “Lagaan” and “3 Idiots,” opened up about his unexpected hiatus from the film industry during the COVID-19 pandemic. Known for his immense popularity, Khan shared that he chose to step back from acting to spend quality time with his family. “I told my family I’m done with acting and films,” he stated, emphasizing his desire to focus solely on being with them during a time when the world was largely at a standstill.
Khan’s decision to withdraw from films, which would typically send ripples through the Bollywood landscape, surprisingly went unnoticed by the public. The pandemic had halted many film productions, leading to a landscape where few people were even aware of his choice. “No one knew about it,” Khan remarked, highlighting the peculiar circumstances that allowed him to take such time off without causing a stir among his fanbase.
Fans can breathe easy, however, as Khan’s break from the industry did not last long. He has returned to the limelight promoting “Laapataa Ladies,” a film he produced that has garnered significant attention and is India’s official entry for the Oscars in the Best International Feature Film category. This decision to re-engage with his work was significantly influenced by his children, who encouraged him to find a balance between family life and his career. “They were like, ‘But we can’t spend 24 hours with you. So get real and get a life,'” Khan recalled, offering a humorous take on how family dynamics played a role in his career choices.
At 59, Aamir Khan remains one of Bollywood’s most accomplished actors, directors, and producers. His presence in the film industry spans over three decades, and he is considered one of the three leading “Khans of Bollywood,” alongside Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan. Known for addressing social issues through his films, Aamir has achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success, with “Lagaan” famously earning an Academy Award nomination in 2002 for Best Foreign Language Film.
Khan is optimistic about the future of his film “Laapataa Ladies,” which tells the story of a young man who mistakenly picks the wrong bride while his intended wife ends up lost. This light-hearted narrative, resembling “Shakespearean” elements, tackles serious subjects like women’s independence and domestic violence. Khan expressed a passionate desire to shed light on these important social issues through cinema, stating his goal to “sensitize people about certain issues that we face in society.”
Khan is enthusiastic about the prospect of Indian cinema achieving more recognition at the Academy Awards, particularly for winning the international category, a feat that has remained elusive thus far. His hopes are tied to India’s cinematic evolution and the potential for filmmakers to target a global audience, suggesting that success in this arena will require a shift in approach.
The actor-manifested his philosophy of work-life balance, seeking to avoid the extreme dedication that characterized his earlier career phases. Influenced by his children, he stated, “They helped me bring some balance into my life,” which has led to adjustments in his work habits, such as not engaging in work after 6 PM. This new approach also incorporates therapy, which he started after his daughter Ira encouraged him to explore mental health options. With this newfound perspective, Khan expressed a sense of contentment, asserting that he is striving to achieve a successful balance between his demanding career and personal life.
As Aamir Khan continues to navigate his journey in Bollywood with renewed vigor, he is also looking ahead to future projects, including the anticipated film “Sitaare Zameen Par,” slated for release in 2025. His ultimate dream project is an adaptation of the “Mahabharat,” showcasing his commitment to creating substantial, impactful cinema that resonates both locally and internationally, ultimately aiming for a powerful presence on the global stage. The excitement surrounding his work remains high, especially with the anticipated outcomes of “Laapataa Ladies” set to unfold soon.
