Showing posts with label Satyamev Jayate. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Satyamev Jayate. Show all posts
Reflection of environmental crisis in popular cinema is practically non existent-Satyajit Bhatkal
7:51 AM
Bhatkal, head of Aamir’s Paani Foundation, roped in as jury member for All Living Things Environmental Film Fest; urges mainstream filmmakers to highlight climate crisis
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; November 22, 2023)
At a time when Delhi is gasping for breath, registering 300 or above on the air quality index (AQI), India is set to host one of the world’s few environmental film festivals, All Living Things Environmental Film Festival (ALTEFF). Joining the jury panel is Satyajit Bhatkal, who directed Aamir Khan’s talk show Satyamev Jayate. The festival’s importance cannot be emphasised enough amid the increasing environmental concerns.
Bhatkal says, “It’s tragic that the AQI levels in Mumbai and Delhi are so high. A film festival on the environment is, therefore, more relevant than ever. We have some great films—We are Guardians, No Water No Village, and From Dreams to Dust. A common element this year is the collapsing biodiversity and ecosystems.”
The ramifications of climate change have been for all to see, from the glacial burst in Sikkim to the sinking of Joshimath. Bhatkal rues that the environmental issues haven’t been adequately reflected in cinema. “If you look at the scale of the environmental crisis, its reflection in popular cinema is practically non-existent.”
Point out that Jawan highlighted the issue of droughts and farmer suicides, and he says, “Movies are a powerful tool to trigger efforts for social upliftment. All of us need entertainment. The audience for entertainment will always be greater than that for social responsibility. The challenge is to make socially responsible content in an engaging way.”
Bhatkal serves as the CEO of Paani Foundation, started by Khan and Kiran Rao that works with farmers towards drought prevention. With the Maharashtra government recently declaring drought in over 40 talukas, he says, “Our focus has been on collectivization of farmers to nurture farming methods that use less water, and put more money in their hands.”
Movies glorifying stalking as wooing tend to do extremely well-Kiran Rao
11:10 PM
Niharika Lal (BOMBAY TIMES; November 11, 2023)
During a recent session, filmmaker Kiran Rao discussed the on-ground scenario of women working in films, expressing surprise at the revelation that less than 1% of screenwriters are female. She added that she finds it a cliché that merely having more women in such positions will bring about substantial change, but perception-wise and perspective-wise, it certainly helps to have more women directors.
‘WE ARE AN INDUSTRY WHERE EVERYTHING IS MEASURED BY BUMS ON SEATS’
A recent research report by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences revealed that on and off screen women and queer representation in box-office hits remains largely stereotypical.
Kiran noted how the report mentions “stalking as one of the most glorified forms of wooing a woman (in films) and films like that do exceedingly well.”
She cited Kabir Singh as an example and added, “Another very big film, which I find fascinating, was Bahubali 1 (Baahubali : The Beginning). It started off with this exciting fight sequence, where this woman is leaping from tree to tree, and she is a warrior. But the hero delicately strips her of her agency and makes her just a fantastic romantic interest. I find it fascinating. It is (one of) the biggest films of Indian cinema.”
Pointing out that despite conveying such a message, the film was a success, she said, “We are also an industry, (where) everything is measured by bums on seats. Everyone only looks at what’s your box-office (collection), and here you are with films which are doing exceedingly well with this kind of messaging.”
‘NEED MORE WOMEN HANDLING ROLES CONSIDERED DIFFICULT TRADITIONALLY’
Talking about having more women in the film business Kiran said, “It’s a bit of a cliché to think that women coming into all these positions will change a lot of things. Honestly, gender sensitization across the board will help all of us, not just the numbers of women. But perception-wise and perspective-wise, it certainly helps to have more women directors, more women producers, and more women screenwriters. And we need to see more women handling positions that would traditionally be considered difficult roles, as women can take positions and deliver.”
Kiran added that she has been seeing a lot of change. “For instance, many of our OTTs are headed by women. Now, we see a lot of women in production roles, and producers say that they trust women more to do production roles. Even in real terms, women will ensure a safe environment, and that people are taken care of, working hours are more reasonable, especially when they are working with children and differently-abled people. Women directors and producers, I’m hoping, will have their radar on.”
‘IF YOU WANT TO CHANGE PEOPLE’S POINT OF VIEW YOU CAN’T ALIENATE THEM’
Talking about her film Laapataa Ladies, which was screened at the Toronto International Film Festival this year, Kiran said that the idea was to speak to an audience that doesn’t want to discuss it. Giving an example, she said, “Even while doing Satyamev Jayate, we discussed that we are dealing with things that are so sensitive and touchy, and you still want to open up a little space in people’s perception. You want to change people’s point of view a little somewhere, and you can’t do that by alienating them. That’s something I take pretty seriously. How do you communicate to a mass that sees things entirely differently? How do we include them?
Sona Mohapatra comes up with an all-female music band for a project
8:10 AM
Titas Chowdhury (HINDUSTAN TIMES; September 25, 2021)
Sona Mohapatra recently collaborated with five women musicians for her latest track, Dholna, hoping to set a precedent. However, she rues the dearth of all-girl music bands in the country. “Girls aren’t traditionally encouraged to play instruments from a young age. The few female bands that do get formed don’t get enough opportunities. I wish (music) festival organisers and brands create more platforms for female bands to perform,” she says, adding that it would help build their confidence.
Going forward, Mohapatra wishes to play with more female instrumentalists. She elaborates, “I hire musicians on the basis of their ability. So, it’s always about merit, talent and commitment first. But, I’ve had wonderful musicians like percussionist Swarupa Ananth and bassist Pooja Mazoomdar in my band over the years.”
The future for women in the music business seems promising, believes the singer. “Being an optimist, I would say that it’s improved in small measures. The live circuit is more professional than before and the next generation of music makers is much more egalitarian and respectful of the creative process,” she says.
The past few years saw Mohapatra belting out several independent tracks. For her, “playback singing was never the dream”. Sharing how she has managed to carve a niche for herself with her singles, she says, “I’ve reached audiences through platforms like Satyamev Jayate and Coke Studio. I’ve consistently put out my originals. I never sat around waiting for opportunities to come my way.”
Some of John Abraham's suggestions were incorporated because they were really good-Milap Zaveri
8:25 AM
Satyamev Jayate 2 director Milap Zaveri on John Abraham's contribution at the script level
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; July 12, 2020)
"I'd message him even at 2 am, if I got a punchline," says Milap Zaveri, director of Satyamev Jayate 2 as he credits John Abraham for always lending him a ear. The director along with his entire crew were ready to begin shoot in April, but the lockdown played havoc with their schedule. Following the government approved safety norms, armed with an action-packed story and with the backing of his team, Zaveri is set to begin shoot in August.In the interim, the filmmaker says that they have been fine-tuning the script with inputs from Abraham. "It's always a mutual collaboration with John. During the lockdown, we would discuss the script. He often gave his inputs and I have incorporated suggestions that I agreed with." Zaveri further adds that time was never a constraint with Abraham as he would respond to the director's message even at the dead of night.
Reminiscing the process of scripting during Satyamev Jayate, the director [says that] Abraham [gave] impromptu suggestions on set. "One of the punchlines we used in the previous film, 'Ab duniya ka koi bhi mard yeh tanaa nahi marega ki tune choodiya pehni hai kya?', was John's idea. He felt I needed to add some more punch to the scene. He had said, 'What's the point of having Milap Zaveri as my director, if I don't get one more punchline?'"
While it may seem common for lead actors to ideate in the scripting process, Zaveri insists that Abraham never crosses the line. "John eventually does what the director asks of him. He never insists on getting his way. Some of the suggestions were incorporated because they were really good, but I still make the final call."
Lockdown Diaries: Sona Mohapatra goes live for fans
8:33 AM
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; April 2, 2020)
Coming a close second to the barrage of exercise videos that have flooded social media news feeds amid the lockdown are live concerts from folk of the music fraternity. Joining the growing league of musicians enthralling fans from home is Sona Mohapatra, who recently conducted a contest for her fans, urging them to identify three looks from her music videos, and guess the songs they featured in. The first 20 to answer correctly were told to make a song request, and name a person they'd want to dedicate it to.
At a live concert to be held today at 4 pm, the singer along with composer-husband Ram Sampath, will belt out the numbers.
Mohapatra says, "Apart from performing these songs acoustically, we also plan to share a few behind-the-scenes anecdotes of working on our albums and films like Delhi Belly, Talaash, and Fukrey, and shows like Satyamev Jayate and Coke Studio. Fans will be able to ask us questions. We can engage with each other and share feedback." She urges individuals to take to such forms of communication while practising social distancing. "Human contact in these tough times is welcome."
Amitabh Bachchan-starrer Jhund in post-production; eyeing May 8 for theatrical release
7:49 AM
Amitabh Bachchan takes to the field for a character inspired by Vijay Barse and his struggle to empower slum kids through soccer
Roshmila Bhattacharya (MUMBAI MIRROR; January 13, 2020)
This is going to be a busy year for Dadasaheb Phalke winner Amitabh Bachchan, with over half-a-dozen films in the works. One of them is Jhund, inspired by Vijay Barse, a retired sports professor from Hislop College in Nagpur, who once saw some slum kids playing football with a broken plastic bucket, which kept them away from gambling, stealing and drinking. He realised that the sport could be a great way to empower them and pioneered ‘Jhoparpatti Football’ or ‘Slum Soccer’ which spread across the country and even abroad. Directed by Nagraj Manjule, the film is produced by Bhushan Kumar and Savita Raj Hiremath, and is currently in post-production with an eye on May 8 for theatrical release.In 2014, Savita saw Barse in an episode of Aamir Khan’s talk show Satyamev Jayate and chased him for the rights to his story, only to learn that he had sold them to another production house. Undeterred, she convinced the filmmakers to part with the rights and discussed the film with Bachchan’s office. “They liked the subject and told me to get in touch after getting a director on board,” she shares.
After watching the Marathi film Sairaat (2016) and given the character’s Maharashtrian background, she thought Manjule would be the best person to direct the film. “But getting hold of him was difficult, he would never pick up the phone. Many Bollywood filmmakers were after him, when I told him Mr Bachchan was interested, he was immediately excited, being a huge fan who’d watch his films four times and even imitated his hairstyle,” recalls Savita, who has produced Khosla Ka Ghosla (2006) which won the National Award for Best Feature Film. Quiz her on her long hiatus from filmmaking and she points out that back then, she was plagued by questions of who’s the hero and the heroine, does the film have an item number and suchlike. Rather than put together proposals, she decided to focus on her advertising agency, returning to cinema only when films like Vicky Donor, Neerja, Do Dooni Char, Badhaai Ho and AndhaDhun proved that content was back.
Initialy, Bachchan had opted out of Jhund, but Aamir Khan who is fond of Nagraj, convinced him to return and Savita admits that it’s impossible to think of another actor in the role. “We shot for 45 days on a set in Nagpur, there were no ego hassles or hierarchy. Mr Bachchan was like a father figure to the kids who were from real slums, never sitting in his vanity van but with them. He taught them not just the rules of the game which he knows well, but also about life itself, through stories. We had two KBC hosts on the sets with Nagraj doing the Marathi version of the game show and Mr Bachchan would give the kids five questions as part of their homework. One day when a song was being shot, while drumming on the plastic tables, the kids came up with a 30-second magical piece of music which we have incorporated,” she exults.
She adds that Nagraj, while making the film, lived with his actors and crew in the same house, cooking, eating, sleeping and dreaming with them. “They were his family and that bond translates on screen. The film is not just about soccer but about channelising opportunities, bringing the haves and have-nots together on the same platform and erasing the gap.”
The film was shot in Faridabad, Kolkata, Chennai and Trivandrum, as the kids took on local teams in tournaments across the country, with the climax shot in Nagpur. “None of the kids, not even the players drawn from local school and college teams, were trained actors. But they were not nervous or over-awed by Mr Bachchan. It was only after the shot that they’d admit their legs had been shaking,” Savita laughs, saying it’s a good time to return to cinema with a film that chronicles a man’s struggle to better the lives of kids who are not his own.
Today, I wouldn’t put on 30 kg for a film-Bhumi Pednekar
7:02 AM
Bhumi Pednekar on things that have changed since her debut and what made her take up the role of a character in her next that is twice her age
Hiren Kotwani (MUMBAI MIRROR; October 3, 2019)
The first thing that strikes you about Bhumi Pednekar is that she’s a complete contrast to the rooted-in-the-heartland characters she’s played. She admits that it’s a challenge for someone born and brought up in Mumbai. “Playing an urban city girl is like makkhan,” she quips, as she gears up for another small-town outing. Chandro Tomar from Baghpat, her character in Saand Ki Aankh, with sister-inlaw Prakashi, holds the record for being the world’s oldest women sharpshooters. That prompts the first query:Had you heard of the Revolver Daadis before the film came to you?
I know of them as my mother is from Haryana and when they started shooting in ’97, they took a lot of people by surprise. The first time I saw them was on Aamir Khan’s chat show, Satyamev Jayate, and their story was inspiring. They had literally lived under the veil for around 60 years, had 40 children amongst them in a family of 80, toiled in the fields, in brickworks, made dung cakes and taken care of the kids. Then, they had stepped out of their comfort zone to take part in a competition sport which pitted them against retired police commissioners and army officers. Phew!
What’s the first thing that struck you when you were offered the film?
That a story like this can get into the rona-dhona zone. But I quickly discovered that despite living under patriarchy, Chandro and Prakashi are women who had led happy, fulfilled lives. The change happened because they didn’t want their granddaughters to have the same lives. Their achievements show us it’s never too late to pursue dreams.
Neena Gupta and Soni Razdan believe older actresses should have played these characters...
Casting is the filmmaker’s prerogative, and while I respect the opinions of Neena ji and Soni ji and those on the social media, I hope they will change their minds once they see the film. For me, playing Chandro daadi, who’s double my age, was the opportunity of a lifetime. Our stalwarts are the legends they are today because they took on such challenges.
What traits of the feisty daadi have you incorporated?
Chandro daadi is an intelligent woman who learnt English from listening to people around her. She doesn’t snap back during an argument but her response is a lesson in itself. While playing her, I also channelised my own naani, a Haryanvi Jat. The way they talk and walk, their habits and strengths are alike. I lost my nana on the day of the trailer launch; this film is my tribute to my grandparents who, having seen life, know it’s pointless to stress.
The daadis started shooting at 60, what would you do at that age?
I’ll serve humanity in some way. Age is just a number, life and change begins when you want it to. The daadis are 87 today and tireless, be it on the social media or at events. I’ve never heard them say they are tired. I want to celebrate life in the same way.
For your debut film, Dum Laga Ke Haisha, you’d put on 30 kg. Would you take up the challenge today?
No, I wouldn’t put on so much weight because I don’t have the time to knock it off. It took me a year to gain weight for Dum Laga Ke Haisha and another year to lose it. Logistically, I can’t do that now, but for SKA, I did add on 10 kilos to look convincing as an old woman.
Are you worried about gaining weight?
I’m very health conscious, it took a lot of hard work to shed the weight I’d put on for this film, more so because 10 days after I wrapped up Saand Ki Aankh I began filming Bala. Fortunately, all the goodies the daadis treated us to were organic, there’s no milavat in their lives.
Rubaru Roshni team stopped watching the material after 6 pm-Svati Chakravarty Bhatkal
8:31 AM
Rubaru Roshni director Svati Chakravarty Bhatkal on the emotional turmoil she endured when putting together her story of forgiveness
Sonia Lulla (MID-DAY; February 1, 2019)
A section of Aamir Khan's production Rubaru Roshni — which aired on television on January 26 — is in stark contrast with the rest of the film. Showcasing a mediator who steps in to heal the families of a victim and her convict in the second of the trio of stories, Swami Sadanand is captured, sharing anecdotes on life, in a rather unsteady frame that sees him moving in and out of it, constantly. Director Svati Chakravarty Bhatkal reveals that the shots that made it to the final edit weren't, in fact, meant to be there.
"I had been to his ashram and done a recce with him on a handy camera. We were to do a proper shoot soon, but he got a heart attack. So, we decided that we'd take the film forward with him at a more suitable time. But, two days before I was to meet him, he had passed away," says Bhatkal of the man who played a vital role in her story of forgiveness.
An array of situations that found her protagonists in mental turmoil delayed her long-in-the-making film. "We also lost sister Mariam's [victim's family] mother, which was an emotional set-back. Often, when I'd plan my shoot schedules to talk to the families [of the victims or convicts] they wouldn't feel like communicating. So, I'd have to pack up and return."
Travelling across India with a cameraman, sound recordist and production assistant in tow, Bhatkal confesses it took a great deal of patience to acquire the confessions. "[Making this film] needed time, and I was willing to give it. I was also willing to take the risk that they may not eventually speak [on record]. It was an emotional journey that those I was talking to, and I, went through. The material was so intense that my team would stop watching it after 6.30 pm."
Having served their time behind bars, the convicts in Bhatkal's documentary, speak with an unusual openness. Prod her on how she enabled them to trust her with their revelations and she says, "I told them the truth — that I was creating a documentary on the subject of forgiveness." Bhatkal's film aptly showcases the ache that accompanies a life cut short. The idea of attaching the theme of forgiveness to these stories, she reveals, germinated from a newspaper clipping of one of them.
Khan's involvement in the project stemmed from his desire to learn what his Satyamev Jayate collaborator Bhatkal was working on post the show on social issues ended. "The rest of the team had joined the Paani Foundation, and he wondered why I hadn't. I told him I wanted to continue telling stories, and I was working on this project. We stuck to these three stories to keep the film from becoming lengthy. For the rest, there may be another time or film."
Aamir Khan’s Satyamev Jayate season 4 to kickstart with #MeToo Movement?
8:02 AM
Chaya Unnikrishnan (DNA; October 16, 2018)
Aamir Khan has been at the forefront of initiating guidelines for the safety of women in the wake of the #MeToo Movement. So much so that he even backed out of producing a biopic, Mogul based on Gulshan Kumar’s life, when allegations of sexual harassment against director Subhash Kapoor came to light. Now, we have learnt that the superstar is planning an episode on the topic that has taken the country by storm for his show Satyamev Jayate’s next season. The series, which revolves around sensitive social issues, has so far had three seasons, with the last one being aired in October 2014.
Sources say the next season of the show, which is slated to air in January 2019, will open with the episode about the #MeToo Movement. “With several women opening up about sexual harassment at workplaces and otherwise, Aamir wants to throw light on their problems and the issue of their safety. He has told his team to start doing research on it. He will invite the #MeToo survivors to share their horrifying experiences. He will also get some of the alleged accused on the show to present their point of view.” Incidentally, Aamir had launched season one with the controversial topic of female foeticide while the second season’s inaugural episode dealt with rape in India.
Aamir Khan to return to television with Satyamev Jayate?
9:03 AM
Chaya Unnikrishnan (DNA; August 31, 2018)
After Shah Rukh Khan, who will be back on TV with the second season of TED Talks India later this year, we hear Aamir Khan, too, is all set to return to the small screen with the third season of Satyamev Jayate (SMJ). The talk show, which was launched in 2012, dealt with social issues and marked Aamir’s debut on the telly. The first season aired 15 episodes, while the second season, which was telecast in 2014, was divided into two parts and was aired in 2014 — five episodes in March and six episodes in October. After that, he got busy with his Paani Foundation and films. But now, sources say that the superstar is gearing up to come back on TV in the first quarter of 2019.
“Once Aamir finishes the promotions of his Diwali release, Thugs Of Hindostan, he will start focussing on the show. His team has begun the research, but the actor, who covers all aspects of a topic, wants everything to be perfect before it goes on air. This time, the superstar will deal with broader topics and those that affect GenNext like depression and unemployment, etc. The show, comprising around 10 episodes, will air post Ted Talks India. While SMJ will be relayed at 11 am every Sunday, talks are still on for a slot for SRK’s show. Last season, the latter was aired at 7 pm, but this time around, that may change as the channel wants to build a slot for knowledge-driven and motivational series,” says an insider.
We contacted Aamir’s spokesperson, but there wasn’t any revert till the time of going to press.
Despite being busy, Priyanka Chopra makes the time to give her feedback-Adinath Kothare
8:07 AM
Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; May 21, 2018)
After the National Award-winning Ventilator, Kaay Re Rascalaa and Firebrand, Priyanka Chopra’s next Marathi production Paani, directed by actor-filmmaker Adinath Kothare, went on the floors on May 10. It is based on the real-life story of Hanumant Kendre from Nagdarwadi village in the Nanded district. Adinath stumbled upon it while watching Kendre on Aamir Khan’s television show, Satyamev Jayate, “His water-harvesting initiative, his struggle and what he did to save his village from a water crisis was remarkable. I was really moved by his interview and inspired to share his story with the world. This subject is a global issue and if you portray it in an art form, people not only understand it, but also start believing in it,” asserts Adinath.
He immediately got in touch with the show’s producer for Hanumant’s phone number. It was out of service and they didn’t have any other number. Adinath tried to get in touch with him through other means, including calling the police station in Nanded. “They gave me the number of a police station controlling the Taluka and from there I got the number of the police station in charge of the village and finally connected with Hanumant. I told him that I wanted to meet him for an interview and that’s how it all started four years ago,” the filmmaker reveals.
He entrusted his friend, writer Nitin Dixit, with the script. Nitin has earlier worked on Nila Madhab Panda’s Kadvi Hawa, which won a Special Mention at the 64th National Film Awards. “I saw how people had to walk four-five kilometres every day for water. But now they have water supply all year around. Hanumant has his own mineral water plant and even supplies to some of the neighbouring villages,” informs Adinath, who is also acting in the film alongside Subodh Bhave, Rajit Kapoor, Kishore Kadam, Girish Joshi and Rucha Vaidya.
Rashmi Kulkarni, creative producer at Priyanka’s production house, got the actress and her mother, Madhu Chopra, to hear the script. “They believed in the story and a first-time director. Despite being busy, Priyanka makes the time to give her feedback. It’s commendable,” Adinath says.
After the National Award-winning Ventilator, Kaay Re Rascalaa and Firebrand, Priyanka Chopra’s next Marathi production Paani, directed by actor-filmmaker Adinath Kothare, went on the floors on May 10. It is based on the real-life story of Hanumant Kendre from Nagdarwadi village in the Nanded district. Adinath stumbled upon it while watching Kendre on Aamir Khan’s television show, Satyamev Jayate, “His water-harvesting initiative, his struggle and what he did to save his village from a water crisis was remarkable. I was really moved by his interview and inspired to share his story with the world. This subject is a global issue and if you portray it in an art form, people not only understand it, but also start believing in it,” asserts Adinath.
He immediately got in touch with the show’s producer for Hanumant’s phone number. It was out of service and they didn’t have any other number. Adinath tried to get in touch with him through other means, including calling the police station in Nanded. “They gave me the number of a police station controlling the Taluka and from there I got the number of the police station in charge of the village and finally connected with Hanumant. I told him that I wanted to meet him for an interview and that’s how it all started four years ago,” the filmmaker reveals.
He entrusted his friend, writer Nitin Dixit, with the script. Nitin has earlier worked on Nila Madhab Panda’s Kadvi Hawa, which won a Special Mention at the 64th National Film Awards. “I saw how people had to walk four-five kilometres every day for water. But now they have water supply all year around. Hanumant has his own mineral water plant and even supplies to some of the neighbouring villages,” informs Adinath, who is also acting in the film alongside Subodh Bhave, Rajit Kapoor, Kishore Kadam, Girish Joshi and Rucha Vaidya.
Rashmi Kulkarni, creative producer at Priyanka’s production house, got the actress and her mother, Madhu Chopra, to hear the script. “They believed in the story and a first-time director. Despite being busy, Priyanka makes the time to give her feedback. It’s commendable,” Adinath says.
Aamir Khan to take a long break post Thugs Of Hindostan?
8:05 AM
DNA (May 16, 2018)
Aamir Khan hasn’t signed any film after Thugs Of Hindostan, which he has almost wrapped up. We hear that the superstar is planning to take a long break post the period adventure film.
Says our source, “Aamir wants a break before he signs his next movie. He also wants to look into his other ventures like the water project, Paani Foundation, and his TV show Satyamev Jayate. As far as his ambitious project based on Mahabharat is concerned, he is still in two minds about it.”
Aamir Khan’s endeavour for Paani Foundation is a huge success
8:00 AM
DNA (March 24, 2018)
Aamir Khan’s Midas touch is not limited to his films or box-office collections, but it also positively impacts his social initiatives. While the actor prefers to not speak about it, Paani Foundation’s ‘Satyamev Jayate Water Cup’ has grown to achieve what they set out to do in the last three years. Says a source, “It has only got bigger and better with every passing year. It has been an initiative that has produced amazing results.”
AN ANNUAL RITUAL
The source adds, “Nobody knows about this, but Aamir has been doing shramdaan (voluntary labour) for the foundation every year.” The Water Cup started in 2016 with just three talukas. Today, however, almost 1/4th of villages in Maharashtra are participating in it. The source says, “In 2018, over 9,000 villages from 75 talukas will be competing for the Water Cup. Because of his phenomenal work in this area in Maharashtra people in even the remotest of places not only know about Aamir, but also look at him as an inspirational figure.”
ALWAYS ACTIVE
The actor, who is often busy shooting, has a team that helps him with the work that the Foundation has undertaken. However, he remains an active participant at all times. While Reena Dutta, Kiran Rao, Satyajit Bhatkal, Swati and a huge team handle the daily proceedings of the initiative, Aamir joins them via video conference to take important decisions regardless of which part of the world he is in. The source says, “He has shown great enthusiasm and passion for this initiative. The idea is to have a drought-free state and all this by training the people themselves about watershed development.”
ABOUT THE SATYAMEV JAYATE WATER CUP...
It is essentially a competition between different villages to see who can do the maximum work for watershed management and water conservation in the period of the competition. The Water Cup creates a platform for villagers to apply their learning from the foundation’s training programme and make their villages water-abundant.
Aamir Khan to return to TV with his show Satyamev Jayate next year?
7:32 AM
Chaya Unnikrishnan (DNA; September 29, 2017)
This year, especially the last quarter of the year, will see all the movie superstars coming back to TV in a big way. Amitabh Bachchan returned to the small screen after three years as the host of Kaun Banega Crorepati, Akshay Kumar, too, is making a comeback three years after Dare 2 Dance, to judge The Great Indian Laughter Challenge, Shah Rukh Khan, last seen hosting India Poochega Sabse Shaana Kaun, will be back; this time as the Ted Talks India host and Salman Khan has just launched the 11th season of Bigg Boss that has become synonymous with him. The only biggie missing in action on the small-screen is Aamir Khan, who made his debut with the talk show Satyamev Jayate in 2012. And now, we hear, the Dangal actor will be back with his show next year.
Ready for encore
Says a source, “The show got rave reviews and garnered a lot of goodwill for Aamir and the channel. It’s a concept that the makers want to revive. It was always in the pipeline, but Aamir who works only on one project at a time was busy with his films. However, now talks are on for the show’s next season. Currently, the actor is shooting for Thugs Of Hindostan, but once he wraps it up, he is likely to focus on his show before starting his next film. The team has started doing the research for the topics that will be covered in the upcoming season. While nothing is finalised yet, Satyamev Jayate is likely to be aired any time between January to March 2018. Right now, with Akshay and Shah Rukh’s shows coming up, there is no slot for Aamir’s show. Even the actor is busy with his film, so if all goes well it will be in the beginning of next year.”
For a cause
So far, three seasons — the second season was aired in two instalments — of the show that focusses on sensitive social issues such as female foeticide, child sexual abuse, honour killings, domestic violence, etc. have aired. Such was the reach and popularity of the show that Time magazine featured Aamir on the cover with the tag line, “Khan’s Quest. He is breaking the Bollywood mold by tackling India’s social evils. Can an actor change a nation?” Last year, Aamir and his wife Kiran Rao launched the Satyamev Jayate Water Cup as part of the Paani Foundation in association with the Government of Maharashtra to work towards solving the water crisis in the state.
Aamir Khan & friends set to solve the water crisis?
8:13 AM
From Saif Ali Khan and Kangana Ranaut to Riteish Deshmukh, Sunny Leone and Reema Lagoo, the actors will tour villages in Maharashtra to talk about water harvesting
Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; March 31, 2016)
On Monday morning, Aamir
Khan met the Governor of Maharashtra, Ch Vidyasagar Rao, and his wife
Vinoda, at the Raj Bhavan to discuss, among other things, the Satyamev
Jayate Water Cup initiative (Mirror, February 18). The Governor gifted AK
a copy of Discovery of India and the 51-year-old actor exited with a
wide smile. But before that, Aamir sought the Governor's views on his
plans to unite the Hindi and Marathi filmy folk for his upcoming
campaign trail through rural Maharashtra.
The actor then invited his friends from both the industries for a private dinner at his home. “He had discussed the initiative with Kangana first over a telephonic chat and had called her again to congratulate her on her recent National Award. She was among the early birds, along with Saif Ali Khan and Rajkumar Hirani, and spent time with Aamir and Kiran,“ a guest at the do informed Mirror.
Representing the Marathi film industry were Riteish Deshmukh, Sai Tamhankar, Reema Lagoo and Atul Kulkarni. Aamir's ex-wife Reena Dutta arrived soon after Sunny Leone, who was accompanied by producer hubby, Daniel Weber. Aamir's Satyamev Jayate research team was also present.
“The purpose of the meeting was to appraise the actors about Aamir's plans for water harvesting and addressing the water scarcity problem. He has urged his friends to campaign along our with him through the state with a team that will dig wells and teach villagers about water harvesting. The legalities involved were also discussed,“ added the guest.
The four-six hour meeting went on till meeting went on till late at night with every guest pitching in with input. “It was soon pretty evident that everyone was ready to come on board on Aamir's personal invitation,“ the guest informed.
------------------------------
Aamir Khan’s late night party on Tuesday for industry buddies turned out to be a masterclass on water conservation
MID-DAY (March 31, 2016)
Trust Aamir Khan to be creative even in his off-the-sets pursuits. Nearly a month after launching Paani Foundation, a non-profit company focusing on creating awareness about water conservation and bringing about an outlook change at the grassroot levels, the star seems to have got down to serious business — mustering as much celebrity support as possible for the initiative. On Tuesday night, he invited a few celebs from the Hindi and Marathi film circles to his house, but it was not a party per se. It was more like an episode of his TV talk show Satyamev Jayate playing out.
A source, who was present at the party, says, “Aamir’s foundation is not in need of finance; he has already got corporate backing. What he wants is for more and more people to be involved in his initiative so that better awareness can be created. Around 60 film and theatre personalities came over to his place to pledge their support.”
Aamir along with Satyajit Bhatkal, creator of Satyamev Jayate, had come up with the water conservation plan — Paani Foundation — which received an official stamp last month. It was in response to the acute water scarcity in the state which has led hundreds of farmers to end their lives.
The Tuesday night gathering included Bollywood A-listers Kangana Ranaut, Saif Ali Khan, Ashutosh Gowariker, Rajkumar Hirani, Ritesh Deshmukh and a host of Marathi film celebs. Aamir’s filmmaker-wife Kiran Rao and ex wife Reena Dutta, who is the COO of Paani Foundation, were also present.
A big screen had been put up to showcase recent footage of the water situation in the state’s rural pockets for the guests to understand the severity of the crisis. The star had also called over a panel of experts to explain the nitty gritty of water management and drought mitigation. “Atul Kulkarni, who has been part of a similar session earlier, spoke about his experience. Ritesh enthusiastically hurled pertinent questions at the experts. Veteran actress Reema Lagoo also seemed quite involved throughout the session,” adds the source.
Aamir’s party-cum-masterclass is definitely a step in the right direction. Kudos!
The actor then invited his friends from both the industries for a private dinner at his home. “He had discussed the initiative with Kangana first over a telephonic chat and had called her again to congratulate her on her recent National Award. She was among the early birds, along with Saif Ali Khan and Rajkumar Hirani, and spent time with Aamir and Kiran,“ a guest at the do informed Mirror.
Representing the Marathi film industry were Riteish Deshmukh, Sai Tamhankar, Reema Lagoo and Atul Kulkarni. Aamir's ex-wife Reena Dutta arrived soon after Sunny Leone, who was accompanied by producer hubby, Daniel Weber. Aamir's Satyamev Jayate research team was also present.
“The purpose of the meeting was to appraise the actors about Aamir's plans for water harvesting and addressing the water scarcity problem. He has urged his friends to campaign along our with him through the state with a team that will dig wells and teach villagers about water harvesting. The legalities involved were also discussed,“ added the guest.
The four-six hour meeting went on till meeting went on till late at night with every guest pitching in with input. “It was soon pretty evident that everyone was ready to come on board on Aamir's personal invitation,“ the guest informed.
------------------------------
Aamir Khan’s late night party on Tuesday for industry buddies turned out to be a masterclass on water conservation
MID-DAY (March 31, 2016)
Trust Aamir Khan to be creative even in his off-the-sets pursuits. Nearly a month after launching Paani Foundation, a non-profit company focusing on creating awareness about water conservation and bringing about an outlook change at the grassroot levels, the star seems to have got down to serious business — mustering as much celebrity support as possible for the initiative. On Tuesday night, he invited a few celebs from the Hindi and Marathi film circles to his house, but it was not a party per se. It was more like an episode of his TV talk show Satyamev Jayate playing out.
A source, who was present at the party, says, “Aamir’s foundation is not in need of finance; he has already got corporate backing. What he wants is for more and more people to be involved in his initiative so that better awareness can be created. Around 60 film and theatre personalities came over to his place to pledge their support.”
Aamir along with Satyajit Bhatkal, creator of Satyamev Jayate, had come up with the water conservation plan — Paani Foundation — which received an official stamp last month. It was in response to the acute water scarcity in the state which has led hundreds of farmers to end their lives.
The Tuesday night gathering included Bollywood A-listers Kangana Ranaut, Saif Ali Khan, Ashutosh Gowariker, Rajkumar Hirani, Ritesh Deshmukh and a host of Marathi film celebs. Aamir’s filmmaker-wife Kiran Rao and ex wife Reena Dutta, who is the COO of Paani Foundation, were also present.
A big screen had been put up to showcase recent footage of the water situation in the state’s rural pockets for the guests to understand the severity of the crisis. The star had also called over a panel of experts to explain the nitty gritty of water management and drought mitigation. “Atul Kulkarni, who has been part of a similar session earlier, spoke about his experience. Ritesh enthusiastically hurled pertinent questions at the experts. Veteran actress Reema Lagoo also seemed quite involved throughout the session,” adds the source.
Aamir’s party-cum-masterclass is definitely a step in the right direction. Kudos!
Next season of Aamir Khan's TV show Satyamev Jayate put off indefinitely?
8:00 AM
Anirban Das (MID-DAY; February 19, 2016)
It has been over a year since the third season of Aamir Khan’s brainchild, Satyamev Jayate beamed into our homes. But, we hear, the new season of the talk show — which lifts the lid off social evils plaguing the country — won’t go on air anytime soon.
Sources close to the star say that he wants to focus on his water conservation project launched with the state government’s support. “Each season of the show has dealt with different issues backed by extensive research. It takes months for in-depth study of an issue to be able to present it before the audience with facts and figures. However, since Aamir has been busy with the water conservation aspect, he has not been able to devote time for the research of the next season,” says a source.
The PK actor, in the presence of chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, announced on Wednesday the Satyamev Jayate Water Cup with an aim to make the state water sufficient. It was launched under his new nonprofit organisation, Paani Foundation. “A few people from his production house, AKP, are working for the foundation while many others involved with the TV show have taken up other projects,” adds the source.
Confirming the story, Satyajit Bhatkal, director of Satyamev Jayate, says, “Aamir and his team, including me, have dedicated most of our time to the cause of water conservation. The idea of the show was to garner people’s response and do good work on field. There are no plans for the new season of the show as yet.”
I'm doing this not as an actor but a human being-Aamir Khan
8:01 AM
Aamir Khan has joined hands with Maha CM and other biggies to solve the water problem
Roshmila Bhattacharya (MUMBAI MIRROR; February 18, 2016)
You've announced the 'Satyamev Jayate Water Cup', an initiative of the Paani Foundation and
the Maharashtra Government to solve the state's water crisis.What drew
you to the issue?
It is an extension of Satyamev Jayate (SMJ) which over three seasons focussed on 24 topics and surprised us with the overwhelming reactions it got. When we started, we weren't sure if a socially-relevant TV show would spark off any interest. It made us realise the importance of communication in nation-building. When Satya (Satyajit Bhatkal, director of SMJ) and I were discussing how to take the show forward, we felt that instead of connecting only through a TV channel if we went on ground with one topic and saw it through till the end, it would help it grow exponentially. Since we are both Maharashtrians we decided to start with our state and the issue of water since we have a history of draughts.
How did the Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, get involved?
This state is as big as any country and we knew that to make an impact we'd have to work with the government machinery. I was planning to meet the CM and coincidentally did at an event. When I told him I wanted to do something on the water problem in Maharashtra he mentioned the Jalyukt Shivar, his flagship project which was launched in November 2014 and said if we joined hands, we could propel it forward. Within a week of the discussion, I got a call inviting me over.
We met on May 1, 2015, Maharashtra Day, following which I got an eight-hour presentation from his team. My team then started their research at the ground level. In the last year, I have realised the current CM has a strong political will about solving the water problem. At the same time, he believes that since water doesn't belong to any political party but to people in general, it should pan out into a civil society movement.
The advisory board of the not-for-profit company that you have launched with wife Kiran, Bhatkal as CEO and your ex-wife Reena Dutta as COO boasts of several big names, including Mukesh and Nita Ambani, Sachin Tendulkar, Kumar Mangalam Birla, Ratan Tata and Baba Kalyani to name a few. How did you get them on board?
They are friends and when I shared what the SMJ team, which is now working for the Paani Foundation has learnt, they were excited to be a part of the project.
Will this kickstart another season of SMJ and lead to other initiatives?
No, solving the water problem in the state is our one-point goal which should take at least five years and that's being ambitious.
The accusation against you is that you take up a cause, get publicity but don't follow up on it, case to point being the Narmada Bachao issue.
That's an unfair allegation. This is the first time that I have taken up a project. So far, if I felt strongly about any issue, wheth er it was Narmada, alcoholism or the girl child, I have expressed my opinion like any citizen and advocated my support.
As a film actor do you see this as your social responsibility?
Not as a film actor but as a human being. The problem calls out to me, I want to solve it.
How many villages stand to benefit from the contest?
We have picked up the Koregaon Taluka in the Satara district in Western Maharashtra, Warud Taluka in the Amravati district of Vidarbha and the Ambajogai Taluka in the Beed district of Marathwada, known to be difficult areas. Each covers around 100 villages; so 300 villages stand to benefit. The first prize is Rs 50 lakh, second Rs 30 lakh, third Rs 20 lakh so in a sense every village will be a winner. We hope to get bigger every year.
Will it be televised?
Yes, we are planning to air it on a Marathi news channel. We will also be tapping radio and all kinds of digital platforms, including launching a website which will bring those who need help and those who want to help on a common platform. The latter can send their money directly to the village and the project they choose and monitor the progress through GPS mapping.
How different is this from what other NGOs are doing?
Other NGOs are also doing wonderful work but they are investing in structures, we are investing in people. Our objective is to enable, educate and empower those in need of water conservation and watershed management.
Is this an olive branch you are extending to the state government following the recent controversy?
The CM and I have been inter acting on this for the past one year and not just over the last few months. We only made the announcement now. Issues like this should not be drawn into any controversy. Irrespective of our personal ideologies, political leanings or financial abilities, people from all walks of life should come together to solve this problem. Only if we respect water will water respect us.
You have been under fire over your statement highlighting Kiran's concerns over safety in our country. The situation doesn't seem to have got any better, have you made peace with it?
I have an answer to your question but don't want to comment on this right now because it would take the focus away from the issue at hand.
It is an extension of Satyamev Jayate (SMJ) which over three seasons focussed on 24 topics and surprised us with the overwhelming reactions it got. When we started, we weren't sure if a socially-relevant TV show would spark off any interest. It made us realise the importance of communication in nation-building. When Satya (Satyajit Bhatkal, director of SMJ) and I were discussing how to take the show forward, we felt that instead of connecting only through a TV channel if we went on ground with one topic and saw it through till the end, it would help it grow exponentially. Since we are both Maharashtrians we decided to start with our state and the issue of water since we have a history of draughts.
How did the Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, get involved?
This state is as big as any country and we knew that to make an impact we'd have to work with the government machinery. I was planning to meet the CM and coincidentally did at an event. When I told him I wanted to do something on the water problem in Maharashtra he mentioned the Jalyukt Shivar, his flagship project which was launched in November 2014 and said if we joined hands, we could propel it forward. Within a week of the discussion, I got a call inviting me over.
We met on May 1, 2015, Maharashtra Day, following which I got an eight-hour presentation from his team. My team then started their research at the ground level. In the last year, I have realised the current CM has a strong political will about solving the water problem. At the same time, he believes that since water doesn't belong to any political party but to people in general, it should pan out into a civil society movement.
The advisory board of the not-for-profit company that you have launched with wife Kiran, Bhatkal as CEO and your ex-wife Reena Dutta as COO boasts of several big names, including Mukesh and Nita Ambani, Sachin Tendulkar, Kumar Mangalam Birla, Ratan Tata and Baba Kalyani to name a few. How did you get them on board?
They are friends and when I shared what the SMJ team, which is now working for the Paani Foundation has learnt, they were excited to be a part of the project.
Will this kickstart another season of SMJ and lead to other initiatives?
No, solving the water problem in the state is our one-point goal which should take at least five years and that's being ambitious.
The accusation against you is that you take up a cause, get publicity but don't follow up on it, case to point being the Narmada Bachao issue.
That's an unfair allegation. This is the first time that I have taken up a project. So far, if I felt strongly about any issue, wheth er it was Narmada, alcoholism or the girl child, I have expressed my opinion like any citizen and advocated my support.
As a film actor do you see this as your social responsibility?
Not as a film actor but as a human being. The problem calls out to me, I want to solve it.
How many villages stand to benefit from the contest?
We have picked up the Koregaon Taluka in the Satara district in Western Maharashtra, Warud Taluka in the Amravati district of Vidarbha and the Ambajogai Taluka in the Beed district of Marathwada, known to be difficult areas. Each covers around 100 villages; so 300 villages stand to benefit. The first prize is Rs 50 lakh, second Rs 30 lakh, third Rs 20 lakh so in a sense every village will be a winner. We hope to get bigger every year.
Will it be televised?
Yes, we are planning to air it on a Marathi news channel. We will also be tapping radio and all kinds of digital platforms, including launching a website which will bring those who need help and those who want to help on a common platform. The latter can send their money directly to the village and the project they choose and monitor the progress through GPS mapping.
How different is this from what other NGOs are doing?
Other NGOs are also doing wonderful work but they are investing in structures, we are investing in people. Our objective is to enable, educate and empower those in need of water conservation and watershed management.
Is this an olive branch you are extending to the state government following the recent controversy?
The CM and I have been inter acting on this for the past one year and not just over the last few months. We only made the announcement now. Issues like this should not be drawn into any controversy. Irrespective of our personal ideologies, political leanings or financial abilities, people from all walks of life should come together to solve this problem. Only if we respect water will water respect us.
You have been under fire over your statement highlighting Kiran's concerns over safety in our country. The situation doesn't seem to have got any better, have you made peace with it?
I have an answer to your question but don't want to comment on this right now because it would take the focus away from the issue at hand.
Aamir Khan’s initiative to make Maharashtra drought-free sees the light of day
7:56 AM
Sonil Dedhia (BOMBAY TIMES; February 18, 2016)
Aamir Khan, who was recently
replaced as the face of the `Incredible India' campaign, is likely to
be named as the ambassador of 'Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan', an initiative by
Maharashtra government to make the state droughtfree by 2019. This
decision comes three months after the actor found himself in the midst
of a controversy on 'intolerance debate'. Some people expressed their
disappointment on social networking sites, even before a formal
announcement was made. They believe that actor Nana Patekar, who has been
doing a lot of work for the farmers in the state, is the right man for
the job.When contacted, Nana said,
“First of all, I don't understand the term 'brand ambassador'. I feel
it's just a fad and nothing else. The state government should focus on
solving the problems of the farmers rather than appointing someone as
the face of a campaign.“ At the same time, Nana doesn't disapprove of
the government's choice and adds, “There is nothing wrong in appointing
Aamir Khan. It's a great thing and I don't have any problems with it. I
feel no one else should have any issues. The decision of appointing him
as the brand ambassador for this cause will not stop me from doing my
job. I don't need any permission or appointment letter to continue what I
am doing.“
-------------------------------
Anirban Das (MID-DAY; February 18, 2016)
After extending financial support to drought- affected farmers in Maharashtra, Aamir Khan’s initiative to promote water conservation in the state has received an official stamp. The actor, in the presence of Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, yesterday announced the Satyamev Jayate Water Cup under his Paani Foundation, which was also formally launched at the event. Aamir along with Satyajit Bhatkal, creator of talk show Satyamev Jayate, had come up with the water conservation plan and in May last year, the star had met Fadnavis for official support. He has managed to bring in business tycoons to be part of the cause. Ratan Tata, Mukesh Ambani, Kumar Mangalam Birla, Baba Kalyani, former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar and director Rajkumar Hirani have already lent their support. “This intiative is people’s movement. Everyone has to come together to conserve water," Aamir said.
While an episode of Satyamev Jayate shed light on water scarcity and the importance of conservation, Aamir felt that the issue needed more attention given the rising cases of farmer suicides in the state. “We will communicate the cause through ads on TV and talk about it on social media and radio, and also create apps so that people can lend financial help and know about water management and conservation,” The star also revealed plans to meet his Bollywood colleague Nana Patekar, who has been deeply involved with the farmers’ cause, post the event.
Fadnavis was all praise for Aamir and exuded hope that the initiative would help curb the water scarcity in the state. “Aamir came up with a full fledged plan. He had many influential people backing him and now the government is also with him for the cause," he said.
Fadnavis was all praise for Aamir and exuded hope that the initiative would help curb the water scarcity in the state. “Aamir came up with a full fledged plan. He had many influential people backing him and now the government is also with him for the cause," he said.
As per plan, all villages of Maharashtra will be invited to take part in the Water Cup. “We will facilitate training to the villagers to save water and then, declare winners. The first edition of the Cup will be restricted to one taluka each in three districts — Koregaon in Satara (western Maharashtra), Ambajogai in Beed (Marathwada) and Warud in Amravati (Vidharba),” said Bhatkal.
Imran and Aamir Khan are very different-Kangana Ranaut
9:17 AM
Sneha Mahadevan (DNA; June 14, 2015)
Kangana Ranaut has just finished working with Imran Khan in Nikhil Advani’s Katti Batti. Though she and Imran hadn’t known each other before they started work on the film, they’re now fairly good friends. However, Kangy has always been close to his uncle, Aamir Khan. Though she is still waiting to collaborate with him on a project, the two have often spoken highly about each other. We asked Kangana to compare the two Khans and surprisingly, she finds no similarities at all. “I have never worked with Aamir, but I know him personally. I have worked with Imran and I think there are no similarities at all. Imran is someone who lives very lightly. Conversations about the weather, a scene, technology — stuff that I would probably talk to my brother about — that is the kind of equation we share. Aamir gets really deep into stuff. If he has just done some research on Satyamev Jayate, about someone’s life in some remote village, he can get really involved with that and talk about that for six hours. He can talk intensely and concentrate on one point. That’s a lot of concentration. It could be due to the fact that Imran is young, but Aamir is a much finer human being. Imran, I think justifies his age. He is more energetic, he can be funny. When you are on the sets, you can tell him things like I like let’s try another shot and he will be fine with it. He is very open to suggestions. It’s very nice to have him around. It’s nice to be around Aamir also because he gives you another perspective or an angle to a specific subject. And you are like, ‘Wow, I didn’t think of that at all.”
Thank God for Aamir Khan; he is my hero-Kangana Ranaut
8:32 AM
Kangana Ranaut, who has never worked with Aamir Khan, shares her view of the reclusive actor, who is a close friend
As told to Sneha Mahadevan (DNA; March 14, 2015)
I didn’t grow up watching films, so my first brush
with Aamir Khan and his films happened when I was probably in Std 9 or
10 when Lagaan had just released and was a roaring success. People here
are obsessed with films but when I was growing up, I was one of those
kids who wasn’t allowed to watch too much television.
My first impression of him when I was actually old enough to have one was that this man had strong values. It’s a very rare quality to find in people, especially in our industry where actors are expected to do just about anything right from dancing at weddings to impromptu jigs.
I am sorry to make it sound bad but it seems like if you throw money at actors, they would do whatever it takes. Amidst this mindset, Aamir stands out. He is a rebel with a cause because he stands up for really cool stuff. Stuff that he believes in and stands by, no matter what.
He was also the first actor who started casting people for films based on character and talent. Very often you see people working with their girlfriends, relatives or friends in movies. When I joined the movies, I knew no one, I didn’t have anyone to turn to but I am not someone who will suck up to people for work. I have set very high standards for myself and I respect myself. That is when I started to obsess over the idea of working with Aamir because he holds merit and talent above everything else and I hope in the coming years, people have the same impression about me.
He is also very inspiring, be it the humanitarian work he does or the causes he stands up for or his television show. He is an amazing person and does incredible things but let’s go of those very things as easily as well. He is one actor who builds an eight pack every year for a year and then loses it as easily for another role that requires him to not have that kind of physique.
When Satyamev Jayate started, my family and I particularly identified with the episode on acid attacks. My sister has gone through that in her life and the way he dealt with a sensitive issue like that was touching. Another episode on mardaangi where he spoke about how men need to hold on to their horses and respect women made him an even bigger hero for me. That episode was about how people take women for granted just because they are gentle and delicate. I have personally experienced that and I admire him for addressing issues like these.
I have had the opportunity to know him closely and in all our conversations, if there is one thing that I have realised is that he is so humble that he doesn’t carry the burden of his achievements because he is extremely humble. For me, more than anything else, it is important to become a successful individual. I want to sit in my room by myself and feel successful. For me, more than material success, my pride and dignity comes first. And his footsetps have helped me achieve that. I didn’t know how to go about becoming that person but Aamir is someone who gave me that direction because he is not someone who blindly runs behind money and is always very right. He is the perfect example of a rebel with a cause. He is my real hero and I hold him in high regard. Thank God for Aamir Khan!
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