Aamir Khan is back with Sitaare Zameen Par, a movie directed by R.S Prasanna. This film tries to bring back the same feelings as the 2008 hit Taare Zameen Par. I watched Sitaare… at the theatre and went back to watch Taare.., on my PC. Watching both films back-to-back really highlighted how, though different in scope, they carry a deeply similar message about neurodiversity and inclusion. In both, Aamir Khan plays a central role guiding the narrative with empathy and conviction. Both stories show an adult undergoing transformation through meaningful connection with neurodivergent children.
In Sitaare Zameen Par, Khan plays a basketball coach who has lost his job, as punishment for drunken, delinquent behaviour. The punishment meted out as part of a rectification process, which does not include spending time in jail, entails that he has to train a basketball team made up of adults with special needs. Genelia D’Souza also stars in the movie, along with many new actors who have special needs themselves.
The story develops at a sports training center, where Khan’s character has to confront his own biases while learning from his new team. The movie talks about inclusion, understanding, and second chances. Even though the story follows a common pattern about underdogs winning (or almost winning, if one wants to look at things in a literal sense), the movie treats its characters with respect and kindness.
Taare Zameen Par feels more personal and introspective, focusing on one child’s emotional journey, while Sitaare Zameen Par widens the lens to include teamwork and sports, shifting toward a more collective narrative. Though the emotional intensity sometimes gets diluted as the film tries to juggle multiple arcs, the message stays consistent.
From a technical perspective, Sitaare Zameen Par impressed in parts but left wanting for more R.S. Prasanna has done a commendable job bringing emotional sincerity to the story, especially in the first half. The basketball sequences are captured with energy, offering some of the film’s best visual moments.
The more intimate emotional scenes also help elevate the tone. However, the screenplay seems to have lost momentum later on, the pacing felt uneven, and a few character backstories didn’t get the attention they deserved. Some scenes, especially in the latter part, could have been trimmed for better rhythm.
Aamir Khan does a good job, but some might feel his performance doesn’t quite match the emotional depth of his earlier roles. Genelia D’Souza supports him well. But the real stars are the actors with special needs. They act naturally and bring authenticity that makes the film feel real. Their performances show the movie’s genuine commitment to representation.
The music is fine but not as memorable as Taare Zameen Par. One can say it supports the narrative well enough. Even with these shortcomings, Sitaare Zameen Par works as a feel-good family movie. It’s more about celebrating differences and human strength than about basketball; the sport is just the backdrop. The ending is touching, and the movie’s message about kindness and empathy is especially relevant in the contemporary social and political atmosphere.
While it’s not as original or emotionally layered as Taare Zameen Par, this movie too reminds us why it’s important to accept and understand each other. It may not be groundbreaking, but it’s honest and uplifting, with strong performances from a committed cast. Families and anyone drawn to stories with heart and social relevance will likely find something meaningful here.
Sitaare Zameen Par is worth a watch. Its sincerity, inclusive spirit, and heartfelt performances make it a touching and meaningful film. If you’re looking for a movie that celebrates empathy, inclusion, and the quiet strength of overlooked voices, this one deserves your time.
( The article has first appeared in AIDEM)
