Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde recently attended a special screening of Aamir Khan’s latest sports drama, Sitaare Zameen Par, and commended the film for sensitively highlighting the struggles faced by children with learning difficulties.
The screening was arranged by Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC. Speaking at the event, Shinde appreciated the movie’s emotional portrayal and its focus on a crucial subject. He assured that the Maharashtra government is committed to supporting children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
“Special children are not different from others in their right to education,” Shinde stated. “The Maharashtra government is committed to providing all necessary support to ensure their integration into mainstream schools. If needed, decisions will also be positively considered at the BMC level.”
Earlier Screening in Delhi Draws Praise from Tharoor
Before the Mumbai screening, a similar event was held in Delhi last month. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor attended that event along with Aamir Khan and shared high praise for the film afterward.
“It is an emotional and heartwarming movie. It teaches a lot. All of Aamir’s performances are great, so I expected nothing less,” Tharoor said. “His acting was first-class in the movie… I liked the story as well. It was well-written. Anyone who watches this movie will not only enjoy it but also learn a lot.”
He also mentioned the impact the film had on the audience, saying, “Many ambassadors who attended the screening expressed their happiness at being there to watch the film… A Lok Sabha staff member was there with his physically challenged daughter. Looking at her smile while watching the movie made him (Aamir Khan) tear up.”
A Sequel with a Purpose
Sitaare Zameen Par is the spiritual sequel to Aamir Khan’s critically acclaimed Taare Zameen Par. In this follow-up film, Aamir plays a basketball coach who trains a team of neurodivergent children, aiming to help them overcome social barriers through sports. Directed by Prasanna, the movie was released in theatres on June 20.
