Aamir Khan wants these stars to get equal recognition as the three Khans

Bollywood icon Aamir Khan has always been known for his thoughtfulness and humility, and in a recent conversation with entrepreneur and podcaster Raj Shamani, the actor once again showcased those traits by addressing a long-standing perception in the Hindi film industry. While often clubbed with Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan as the “top three Khans” of Bollywood, Aamir expressed discomfort with the exclusivity of the title and emphasized the importance of acknowledging the contributions of other actors from his generation.

“It Hurts Me”: Aamir on Overlooking Ajay, Akshay, and Hrithik

Aamir candidly shared his feelings about how the industry and fans often overlook other talented contemporaries like Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, and Hrithik Roshan when discussing Bollywood’s biggest stars.

“What hurts me is that people always take my name along with Shah Rukh and Salman. It's not wrong, but I feel bad that Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, and Hrithik Roshan have also been working for just as long,” Aamir said.

The actor noted that all these stars have delivered major hits and have enjoyed sustained success over three decades—an exceptional feat in an industry known for its fickle nature.

Credit Where It's Due: Aamir Advocates for a Broader View

Reflecting on the larger picture, Aamir explained that the late 1980s ushered in a remarkable generation of actors. “It’s not just the three of us—there are many who’ve been consistently working for 30–35 years, giving blockbuster hits. That kind of longevity is rare, and they all deserve to be celebrated.”

When asked why the "three Khans" label persists, Aamir admitted it might be due to their box office dominance and record-breaking films. However, he stressed the need to correct the narrative and celebrate the broader pool of talent that has shaped Bollywood over the years.

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What’s Next for Aamir Khan?

After taking a brief hiatus post Laal Singh Chaddha, Aamir Khan is all set to return to the big screen with his upcoming film Sitaare Zameen Par, slated for release on June 20. Touted as a spiritual successor to his critically acclaimed 2007 hit Taare Zameen Par, the film explores the world of children through a fresh lens, blending heartwarming emotion with uplifting drama. While Taare Zameen Par focused on the struggles of a child with dyslexia, Sitaare Zameen Par will reportedly revolve around the journey of differently-abled children in the world of sports, with Aamir playing the role of a mentor.

A Humble Star with a Big Message

Aamir Khan's words serve as a reminder that success in cinema is not confined to just a few faces. In an industry where public perception often builds and breaks careers, his call for inclusivity, fairness, and recognition beyond the obvious is a powerful one. As fans gear up for Sitaare Zameen Par, they’re also seeing a star who continues to lead not just on screen, but in thought.