Aamir Khan’s latest cinematic offering, Sitaare Zameen Par, has not only won hearts with its emotional storytelling but has also become a launchpad for fresh talent in Bollywood. Released on June 20, 2025, this sports comedy-drama, directed by R.S. Prasanna, is a spiritual successor to Khan’s iconic 2007 film Taare Zameen Par. While it carries forward the legacy of celebrating individuality and empathy, it also shines a spotlight on ten neurodivergent debutant actors, marking a significant step toward inclusivity in Indian cinema.
The film, a remake of the 2018 Spanish hit Champions, follows the journey of Gulshan Arora (played by Aamir Khan), a brash basketball coach who, after a DUI incident, is assigned community service to train a team of neurodivergent athletes for a national tournament. The story blends humor, heart, and a powerful message of acceptance, with the debutant actors stealing the show with their authenticity and charm.
A Platform for New Stars
What makes Sitaare Zameen Par stand out is its bold decision to cast ten specially-abled newcomers, each bringing a unique energy to the screen. The ensemble includes Aroush Datta as Satbir, Gopi Krishnan Varma as Guddu, Vedant Sharmaa as Bantu, Naman Misra as Hargovind, Rishi Shahani as Sharmaji, Rishabh Jain as Raju, Ashish Pendse as Sunil Gupta, Samvit Desai as Karim Qureshi, Simran Mangeshkar as Golu Khan, and Aayush Bhansali as Lotus. These actors, many of whom are making their cinematic debut, portray the neurodivergent basketball team with such sincerity that audiences have been left both laughing and teary-eyed.
Social media posts have been buzzing with praise for these newcomers. A post from @AKPPL_Official on X highlighted Satbir’s larger-than-life persona, calling him “Height jaise tower, vibe full power!” Another post celebrated Lotus, describing him as “paas jaakar dekha to Kamaal tha.” These snippets reflect the audience’s love for the fresh faces who bring the story to life. Critics, too, have lauded their performances, with The Times of India noting, “The ensemble cast deserves applause for bringing energy, authenticity, and warmth to the film.”
Aamir Khan’s Vision for Inclusivity
Aamir Khan, known for his socially relevant films, has once again pushed the envelope with Sitaare Zameen Par. By casting neurodivergent actors, the film not only tells a story of inclusion but practices it in its very making. The actors’ real-life experiences add depth to their roles, making the narrative resonate deeply with viewers. As one X user put it, “Each one sitaares are real MVPs. You’ll totally love Satbir, Golu, Hargovind, and the whole team!”
The film’s premiere was a star-studded affair, attended by Bollywood bigwigs like Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Rekha, but it was the debutants who stole the spotlight. A special screening at Rashtrapati Bhavan, graced by President Droupadi Murmu, further underscored the film’s impact. The President’s office shared on X, “The film, featuring real people with neurodivergent conditions, weaves in the message of diversity, equity, and inclusion.”
A Box Office and Emotional Triumph
Sitaare Zameen Par has been a commercial success, grossing over ₹162 crore in India and ₹239.50 crore worldwide within 26 days of its release. Despite facing competition from new releases like Maalik and Superman, the film’s heartwarming narrative and strong performances have kept audiences coming back. Its exclusive theatrical release, a bold move by Aamir Khan Productions, has been praised by the Multiplex Association of India for reinforcing the magic of cinema on the big screen.
However, the film’s true victory lies in its emotional impact. Darsheel Safary, the child star of Taare Zameen Par, shared a heartfelt review on Instagram Stories, saying, “My heart feels fuller, softer, and happier. The film holds up a mirror with humor, grace, and heart.” Fans on X echoed this sentiment, with one user calling it “a warm hug that reminds you everyone’s normal is beautiful.”
A Few Hiccups, But a Shining Message
While the film has been widely praised, some critics have pointed out flaws. The Times of India noted that subplots involving Gulshan’s mother (Dolly Ahluwalia) and butler (Brijendra Kala) feel unnecessary, and the climax can be overly sentimental. Others, like Shilajit Mitra of The Hindu, found it “annoying” despite its good intentions. Yet, the consensus remains that the film’s heart and humor, coupled with the stellar performances of its debutant actors, make it a must-watch.
A New Chapter for Bollywood
Sitaare Zameen Par is more than just a film—it’s a celebration of new talent and a step toward a more inclusive Bollywood. By giving neurodivergent actors a chance to shine, Aamir Khan and R.S. Prasanna have set a precedent for meaningful storytelling. As one critic put it, “This is a film that teaches while it entertains, without ever being preachy. It nudges us to be kinder, gentler, and more accepting.”
For these ten new stars, Sitaare Zameen Par is just the beginning. Their performances have already won over audiences, and Bollywood is eager to see where their journey takes them next. For now, head to the theaters to witness this heartwarming tale of resilience, love, and the power of every individual’s unique light.
