ACTOR & PRODUCER
Aamir Khan is one of India's most influential cinematic figures - Jaane Na, and the inspirational drama Secret Superstar, the latter a globally recognized actor, director, and producer whose work became the highest-grossing Indian film in China at the time. His has continually pushed the boundaries of what film can achieve, most recent production, the feminist rural dramedy, Laapataa Ladies both artistically, socially, and commercially. (2024) was selected as India's official submission for the 97th Academy Awards, reaffirming his commitment to female-led storytelling with purpose.
A TIME100 honouree, Khan is renowned for blending box office success with deeply human storytelling. His career spans over three decades, beginning with his debut in the cult romantic classic Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak (1988), followed by genre-defining films. such as the BAFTA-nominated youth drama on patriotism Rang De Basanti, the groundbreaking satire on education and self-worth 3 Idiots, and milestone feminist sports drama on women wrestlers Dangal, the latter becoming India's highest-grossing film of all time and a breakout hit across China, South Korea, Turkey, and Japan, where he remains a household name.
Khan has set unprecedented commercial benchmarks in Indian cinema. He inaugurated India's coveted 100 crore club with the psychological revenge thriller Ghajini, followed by 3 Idiots, the first 300 crore film, and Dangal, which created the 2000 crore global box office club, a feat yet to be matched.
His landmark Oscar-nominated colonial-era cricket epic Lagaan (2001) was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the 74th Academy Awards, positioning him as a pioneer in taking Indian cinema to global audiences. Through his banner Aamir Khan Productions, he has produced a slate of bold, socially resonant, and genre-defying films from the satire Peepli Live and black comedy Delhi Belly to commercial successes like Gen-Z romance Jaane Tu Ya.
Khan's deeply personal and culturally impactful film Taare Zameen Par (Stars on Earth), which he directed, produced, and starred in, sparked national and international dialogue around inclusive education. The film encouraged schools and educators to adopt inclusive policies and practices, recognising the importance of providing support and resources for diverse learners. It became a cult classic across Asia, particularly in China and the Middle East, and was India's official submission to the 80th Academy Awards. His upcoming film Sitaare Zameen Par (Superstars on Earth), builds on that legacy, centering on joy, inclusion, and the power of unlearning prejudice through unexpected connection.
Khan's influence extends beyond cinema. His pioneering television series Satyamev Jayate tackled taboo social issues and inspired policy reform, reaching over a billion people worldwide. He is also the co-founder of Paani Foundation, a non-profit focused on drought prevention and climate resilience in India. Aamir Khan's body of work continues to challenge convention, spark conversation, and inspire audiences around the world, with films that are as entertaining as they are transformative.
