Aamir Khan’s long-awaited film ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’ finally released in cinemas on Friday, June 20, but not without controversy.

According to multiple media reports, the film was certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) only after the producers agreed to a series of mandated changes, including the insertion of a quote by PM Narendra Modi in the opening credits. The certification was approved on June 17, following negotiations between the filmmakers and the board.

The quote, referring to India’s future vision for inclusivity, reads:

“In 2047, when we celebrate the 100th anniversary of Independence, our divyang friends will be seen as an inspiration to the whole world. Today we have to be determined for this goal. Let us all build a society where no dream or goal is impossible, only then we will be able to build a truly inclusive and developed India.”

Political messaging sparks outcry

The CBFC’s directive to include the Prime Minister’s quote has triggered criticism from several quarters, with free speech advocates calling it a case of political interference in creative expression.

Critics argue that compelling a film to carry a political message sets a dangerous precedent, effectively turning the certification process into a platform for government propaganda.

In addition, the use of the term “divyang”, popularised by Modi in 2015 to refer to persons with disabilities, has faced ongoing opposition from disability rights activists.

They argue that the word, which means “divine body,” is patronising and fails to reflect the lived realities of disabled people.

Numerous petitions have been submitted to the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment since 2015, urging them to reconsider the terminology, but it continues to be used in official communications.

Other CBFC-mandated edits

The PM’s quote was not the only change the CBFC demanded. According to reports from The Hindustan Times, several other edits were made to the film to secure its release:

  • The term “business woman” was changed to “business person.”
  • A 30-second audio disclaimer was reduced to 26 seconds.
  • A scene featuring the word “kamal” (lotus) was removed, along with its appearance in subtitles.
  • The phrase “Michael Jackson” was replaced with “Lovebirds” in the subtitles.

The film was initially reviewed by a standard examining committee, but was later sent to a nine-member revising committee chaired by theatre personality Waman Kendre, a routine step when the CBFC or filmmakers request further review. Members of the committee have not issued any public statements regarding the edits.

About the film

Directed by RS Prasanna, ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’ stars Aamir Khan alongside Genelia D’Souza in a lead role. The film is a Hindi adaptation of the Spanish hit ‘Champions’ (2018) and is being promoted as a spiritual successor to Aamir Khan’s widely acclaimed 2007 film ‘Taare Zameen Par’.

The story follows a basketball coach who, after being sentenced to community service by the court, finds himself training a team of athletes with intellectual disabilities. The film explores his journey from indifference to inspiration as he learns valuable lessons about resilience, empathy, and acceptance.