I Tear Up Over Social Media Reactions To ‘Dangal’: Aamir Khan

Aamir Khan talks about the success of ‘Dangal’ and how overwhelming it has been.

Aamir Khan’s Dangal has become the biggest Bollywood blockbuster. The film, directed by Nitesh Tiwari has crossed Aamir’s own record holding blockbuster PK by collecting over Rs 350 crore in India since its release on 23 December, 2016.

The actor held a presser to talk about the success of his film.

On Dangal’s Success

I get teary-eyed when I read emails, Twitter reactions to Dangal. Since the film has released, I’ve been checking for the audiences’ reactions to the film. 

Aamir Khan

On Salman’s ‘Envious’ Tweet and Setting New Benchmarks

It was a loving tweet, actually. The fact that he’s saying it publicly, it’s a huge compliment. I’m not trying to set any benchmarks. Whether a film strikes chord with the audience or not, cannot be predicted. I try to make films which make me happy. 

Aamir Khan

On Breaking Records & Competing With Salman- Shah Rukh

I would say that if there is anyone that I’m competing with, it is with myself. It is not that I consider Shah Rukh and Salman as great actors. Not only them, there are a host of other actors; Akshay, Ajay, Hrithik, Ranbir and Ranveer. I love Sultan, Dabangg. I love Sanju’s role in Munnabhai MBBS. I’m happy to see my colleagues do great work, it inspires me. But I’m not competitive by nature. As an artiste, as a creative person I try to better myself. 

Aamir Khan

On Awards for Dangal

For me, Dangal has already got the biggest award. The love that the film has received is the biggest award.

Aamir Khan

On the Value of Commercial Awards

No, they are of no value to me. And, that will never change. If people appreciate your work, what else do you need?

Aamir Khan

Favourite Scene of Dangal

The fight between Mahavir Singh Phogat and his daughter, Geeta in the akhara. The scenes where Babita (Sanya) acts as a mediator between Mahavir and Geeta. And the final scene; the way Fatima wrestles. You cannot look away, it’s so exciting.

Aamir Khan

On Parenting Like Haanikaarak Bapu, Mahavir

I give my children complete freedom to do what interests them. But freedom doesn’t mean parents shouldn’t guide or advise their kids. Although, Mahavir pushed his kids to achieve what was his dream. If Geeta and Babita didn’t have that passion, they wouldn’t have been great.

Aamir Khan

On Cinematic Liberty

The coach’s name and his character is fictitious. Dangal is about Mahavir, Geeta and Babita. The characters around these three are all fictitious. You need some drama and conflict to take a story forward. We’ve seen it happen, even in biopics. So that’s what we’ve done.

Aamir Khan

On Tackling Social Issues

It’s not enough to base your film on a social issue. A film tackles any sensitive issue needs to be communicated well, as well. It needs to be well-shot and well-scripted. One cannot just pick up a social issue

Aamir Khan

On Working In Hollywood

I have a relationship with my audience. 27 long years of it and I give it a lot of value. I truly cherish it. i have no interest in doing Hollywood films. That doesn’t mean it’s bad to want a global audience. And it’s not like I’m not open to world cinema. Films have no boundaries. If an exciting script or exciting character comes my way, even from Japan, (not just America) I would do it.

Aamir Khan

On Standing Up For The National Anthem

Everyone stood up for the national anthem, even in theatres. As far as I know. It’s because Niteshji has written that scene like that. When Mahavir realises his daughter has won, it’s an emotional moment. I was so excited to hear about the last scene.

Aamir Khan

On SRK’s Favourite Films

I love Shah Rukh’s Chak De! India, Swades, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, and Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge.

Aamir Khan

Aamir Khan also added that Satyamev Jayate will not be coming back for a while because the entire team of Satyamev Jayate is busy working with Paani Foundation.

Aamir is also very excited to present Zaira Wasim starrer film, Secret Superstar to the audiences in 2017.