Srinagar, June 23: Aamir Khan’s latest film, Sitare Zameen Par, has struck a deep chord with audiences across the Kashmir Valley, earning widespread praise for its heartwarming narrative and focus on children with learning disabilities. From students to educators and filmmakers, voices from the region are hailing the film not only as emotionally powerful but also as socially essential.
The film, which tackles themes of inclusivity, empathy, and educational reform, is being described by many as a “must-watch,” especially for parents, teachers, and young people. The compelling portrayal of neurodivergence has brought much-needed attention to a subject often sidelined in public discourse.
After watching the film at INOX Srinagar, moviegoers were seen reflecting on its transformative impact, recognizing the potential of cinema to spark dialogue and drive meaningful change. Sitare Zameen Par is being hailed as a shining example of cinema that does more than entertain—it uplifts, encourages empathy, and advocates for a more inclusive approach to education. The film’s lasting emotional resonance underscores the power of storytelling that transcends generations and lingers long after the credits roll.
RJ Umar Nisar, a filmmaker and podcaster, shared his thoughts with Rising Kashmir, saying, ‘Sitare Zameen Par’ is not just a film, it is a lesson. It beautifully captures the agony and hardship of children with learning disabilities, portraying their uniqueness in a way that deserves more recognition.
“Aamir Khan’s performance and direction are exceptional. The film touched my heart and made me reflect on how children in our society, including here in Kashmir, often face silent struggles. This is a powerful reminder that we must see and support them.”
Umar further said, “As a filmmaker, Sitare Zameen Par reminded me why we tell stories—it bridges the world of cinema with social responsibility. It also reflects India’s growing focus on rehabilitation and inclusivity.”
Educators across the Valley have echoed this sentiment. Rehman Waris, Dean of Academics at Birla Open Minds International School in Pampore, praised the film as “a poignant and powerful tribute to the hidden struggles of children with learning disabilities.” He added, “Films like this have the ability to open eyes and soften hearts, especially in regions where such issues are often ignored.”
The film’s impact extends to the younger generation as well. Ahmer, a Grade 11 student from Birla Open Minds, shared, “The film made me realize that everyone learns differently, and that’s something to celebrate, not hide. It inspires hope and shows that talent isn’t defined by marks—it’s about understanding one another.”
The movie is also motivating aspiring artists. “As an aspiring filmmaker, I see Sitare Zameen Par as a timeless reminder of what cinema can achieve,” said Sajad Nisar. “It moves hearts, changes minds, and inspires action. I want to create films like these stories that matter.”
Rubina, who watched the film with her family at INOX Srinagar, said, “We were all very emotional. The movie shows how every child is different and needs love. In Kashmir too, many children go through similar pain. This film teaches us to be kind. Aamir Khan has done a wonderful job.”
She said that this movie shows how children are mistreated just because they learn differently. In Kashmir, children have their share of struggles. This film teaches empathy, patience, and support. It should be screened in schools across the Valley.”
Sabiya Jan, a college student, says that this film brought tears to my eyes. It shows how one understanding teacher can change a child’s world. Many students in Kashmir suffer silently, and this film gives them a voice. It teaches us that no child is weak; they just need someone who believes in them, she said.
Outside Kashmir too, the film is touching lives. “Watching Sitare Zameen Par was a deeply emotional experience,” said Shalini Mehra, a Delhi-based special educator.
“It shows exactly what we go through with our students every day the challenges, the small victories, the emotional toll. But more than anything, it spreads awareness that is much needed.”
From Mumbai, filmmaker and father of two, Vikram Deshpande, added: “This film made me rethink my approach as a parent. We’re often focused on results and competition. Aamir’s film is a beautiful reminder that every child has their own pace, and it’s our job to understand and support them.”
With stirring performances, an emotionally charged narrative, and a message that speaks across age groups and regions, Sitare Zameen Par is being embraced as more than just a film it is being hailed as a movement toward more understanding, more compassion, and more inclusive storytelling.
According to the trade website, Sitaare Zameen Par has earned ₹30.90 crore net and ₹37 crore gross in India. Adding the ₹13 crore it collected overseas, the film has earned ₹50 crore worldwide in two days. The film saw an 88.79 % jump in collections on Sunday, after a ₹10.7 crore net opening in India.
Sitaare Zameen Par has officially beaten Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency’s lifetime collections, which stand at ₹23.75 crore. The film will also beat Shahid Kapoor’s Deva lifetime collections, which stand at ₹55.8 crore, over the weekend. The sports comedy is performing well, as for context, Akshay Kumar’s Kesari Chapter 2 had made ₹30 crore worldwide in two days.
Aroush Datta, Gopi Krishnan Varma, Vedant Sharma, Naman Misra, Rishi Shahani, Rishabh Jain, Ashish Pendse, Samvit Desai, Simran Mangeshkar, and Aayush Bhansali made their debut in the film. Sitaare Zameen Par tells the story of a disgraced basketball coach mandated by the court to teach the sport to neurodivergent individuals.
