'My Patriotism reflects in my work': Aamir Khan breaks silence on Pahalgam Attack, criticism, and more

Bollywood icon Aamir Khan, often called the 'perfectionist' of Indian cinema, is not just known for his stellar performances but also for choosing stories that resonate with the heart of the nation. From Lagaan to Rang De Basanti, Sarfarosh, and Mangal Pandey, his filmography stands as a testament to a deep-rooted love for the country. Now, as India reels from the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, Aamir has broken his silence, condemning the violence and addressing pointed questions about his patriotism and film choices.

In an exclusive conversation with India TV, the actor didn't mince words when it came to expressing his anguish over the April 22 attack that shook the nation.

“It Could’ve Been Any of Us”

Condemning the attack in the strongest terms, Aamir said, “The terror attack was cruel. It only demonstrates the terrorists' cowardice that they entered our country and fired bullets at common men. You or I could've also been there.”

Referring to disturbing reports that the attackers asked victims about their religion before opening fire, Khan asked, “What does that even mean?” Clearly disturbed, he added, “Like every Indian, there was a lot of anger and pain in my heart too. In fact, I was so depressed I didn’t step out of my home for days.”

Criticism and Film Promotions: An Unfair Link?

When asked whether his comments were timed to promote his upcoming film Sitaare Zameen Par, releasing on June 20, Aamir countered firmly: “If I speak about our forces delivering a befitting response, then am I doing something wrong? Should I think about the film or our forces at that time?”

“My patriotism is deeply rooted in my work,” he added, referencing Rang De Basanti, Lagaan, and Sarfarosh. “I don’t think any other actor has done more patriotic films than I have.”

Also Read: Sarfarosh 2 on cards! Aamir Khan confirms another sequel, 'Abhi kaam chal raha hai...'

On the PK Controversy: “We Respect All Religions”

Touching upon the backlash faced by his 2014 film PK, Aamir reiterated that the film wasn’t against any religion. “We respect all religions. The film only warned people to be cautious of those who exploit religion for personal gain. You’ll find such people in every religion,” he clarified.

Aamir Khan Breaks Silence on 'Love Jihad' Allegations: "This is Humanity, Not Conspiracy"

“When two people — especially a Hindu and a Muslim — fall in love and get married, it’s not necessarily ‘love jihad’. It’s just humanity. It’s above religion,” Aamir said, challenging the controversial narrative often used to describe interfaith marriages involving Muslim men and non-Muslim women.

He further pointed to his own family as an example. Aamir asked whether his sisters and daughter marrying Hindu men would also be labeled as instances of ‘love jihad’. His sister Farhat is married to Rajeev Dutta, and his other sister Nikhat to Santosh Hegde. More recently, his daughter Ira Khan tied the knot with fitness coach Nupur Shikhare, who is also Hindu.

Aamir himself has been married twice — both times to Hindu women: first to Reena Dutta, and later to Kiran Rao. When asked why his children — Ira Khan, Junaid Khan, and Azad Rao Khan — all have Muslim surnames despite their mothers being Hindu, Aamir responded with humility and humor.

On Patriotism and Social Work

Responding to ongoing criticism questioning his patriotism, Aamir pointed to his extensive work beyond films. “I made socially relevant films, hosted Satyamev Jayate to raise awareness on crucial issues, and have been running the Paani Foundation for rural development. And yet, people question my integrity,” he said. “Show me any other actor who has done as much as I have in the last three decades for the betterment of our country.”

Why Dangal Never Released in Pakistan

Aamir also revealed why his blockbuster film Dangal was never released in Pakistan. According to him, Pakistan’s Censor Board demanded that the Indian national flag and anthem be removed from the film’s climax, a request he refused to comply with. “That was the emotional core of the film. We couldn’t compromise,” he stated.

A Voice Rooted in Conviction

Aamir Khan’s words echo the voice of an artist who has long used cinema as a medium for change and patriotism. Whether through path-breaking films, social initiatives, or standing firm against censorship, the actor continues to assert that his love for the country runs deep not in soundbites, but in substance.