Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, known for his iconic films like Lagaan and 3 Idiots, recently shocked fans by announcing his retirement from acting during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The decision was motivated by his desire to spend more time with his family, a rare move for a major star in the Indian film industry.
In an interview with BBC News, Khan revealed that he made the decision to quit films temporarily, much to the surprise of his fans. However, the lack of film production during the pandemic meant that his departure went largely unnoticed in the industry.
But the retirement was short-lived, as Khan is back with a new film, Laapataa Ladies, which has been selected as India’s official entry for the Oscars in the best international feature film category. The film, produced by Khan, delves into important social issues, including women’s rights and domestic violence.
Khan’s return to acting was influenced by his children, who encouraged him to strike a balance between work and family life. The 59-year-old actor, director, and producer is now juggling multiple projects, including his next film Sitaare Zameen Par, with a newfound focus on maintaining a work-life balance.
Despite his stellar career in Bollywood, Khan remains humble about awards and recognition, acknowledging the stiff competition at the Oscars. He believes that Indian filmmakers need to start making movies for a global audience in order to have a shot at winning the prestigious international film award.
For Khan, Laapataa Ladies is not just a film but also a platform to raise awareness about women’s issues and promote gender equality. The movie, directed by his ex-wife Kiran Rao, explores themes of women’s independence and empowerment, reflecting Khan’s commitment to using his platform for social change.
