11 Turning Points in Aamir Khan’s Career

Aamir Khan, known as Bollywood’s Mr. Perfectionist, has carved a unique niche in Indian cinema through his commitment to storytelling, method acting, and selective film choices. Over the years, he has transformed not only his own career but also redefined the standards of Bollywood filmmaking. Here’s a deep dive into the turning points of his illustrious journey, highlighting his most iconic films.

1. Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak (1988) – The Birth of a Romantic Superstar

This cult classic romantic drama introduced Aamir Khan as the ultimate boy next door. His chocolate-boy image and heartfelt performance made him the nation’s heartthrob. Aamir played Raj, a simple yet passionate lover, and with this film, he established himself as the go-to romantic hero of the 90s.

2. Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar (1992) – Pioneering Bollywood Sports Dramas

Before Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, sports-themed Bollywood films often failed at the box office. This film changed the landscape, proving that sports movies could be both engaging and commercially successful. Aamir’s portrayal of the underdog Sanjay Lal Sharma remains one of his most inspiring roles, laying the foundation for later sports-based hits like Dangal.

3. Andaz Apna Apna (1994) – The Ultimate Cult Comedy

Initially a box office failure, this film became one of Bollywood’s most loved comedies over the years. Aamir’s chemistry with Salman Khan in this Tom-and-Jerry-style slapstick set the benchmark for buddy comedies like Dilwale and Gunday.

4. Lagaan (2001) – A Historic Win for Indian Cinema

Aamir took a massive risk by producing and starring in Lagaan, a period drama centered around cricket. The film shattered myths that period films don’t work commercially, that Bollywood cannot appeal to the West, and that a dhoti-clad hero wouldn’t be widely accepted. It became India’s third-ever Oscar-nominated film, and to this day, remains the most successful cricket-themed Bollywood movie.

5. Dil Chahta Hai (2001) – Redefining Modern Youth Cinema

In the same year as Lagaan, Aamir starred in Dil Chahta Hai, which revolutionized Bollywood’s youth-centric films. He played Akash, a carefree and witty character, a role that was 10 years younger than his real age. The film brought a fresh and contemporary take on friendships and relationships, setting a trend for coming-of-age dramas.

6. Rang De Basanti (2006) – Cinema as a Social Awakening

This film wasn’t just a blockbuster; it sparked real-life political discussions among India’s youth. Rang De Basanti brought forward themes of patriotism and social activism, proving that cinema can be a catalyst for societal change. Aamir once again played a character much younger than his real age but delivered one of his most powerful performances.

7. Taare Zameen Par (2007) – Aamir’s Directorial Brilliance

Marking his debut as a director, Aamir tackled the sensitive issue of dyslexia in children. The film changed the way Indian society looked at childhood learning disabilities and the education system. It remains an educational masterpiece and a must-watch for parents and teachers alike.

8. 3 Idiots (2009) – Exposing Flaws in the Education System

Possibly Bollywood’s highest-grossing film, 3 Idiots critiqued the rigid education system, encouraging students to pursue their passion rather than societal expectations. The film’s themes resonated globally, making it a box office sensation in countries like China.

9. Delhi Belly (2011) – Aamir’s Bold Experiment with Dark Comedy

Aamir, in his producer’s role, took a massive gamble on this adult-rated dark comedy, which broke Bollywood’s traditional mold. It paved the way for bolder and more experimental storytelling in mainstream cinema.

10. PK (2014) – Questioning Organized Religion

Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, PK was a thought-provoking film that challenged the commercialization of religion. It stirred massive discussions, making it one of Bollywood’s most controversial yet successful films.

11. Dangal (2016) – Breaking Gender Stereotypes

Decades after Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, Aamir reinvented himself yet again. He underwent a dramatic physical transformation to portray Mahavir Singh Phogat, a wrestler determined to train his daughters to become champions. The film broke multiple records, becoming India’s highest-grossing film worldwide and proving that female-led sports films could dominate the box office.

Complete Filmography of Aamir Khan

Unknown Facts About Aamir Khan

1. Turned Down International Offers – Aamir once declined an important role in a Hollywood film as he wasn’t comfortable with the script.
2. Perfectionist in Every Sense – He famously drinks three liters of water daily to maintain his skin’s health, a habit linked to his extreme dedication to fitness.
3. First Bollywood Actor to Have a ₹1000 Crore Film – Dangal remains one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films, making over ₹2000 crore globally.
4. No Award Shows – Aamir Khan stopped attending award functions in the 1990s, believing they were biased and commercialized.
5. Method Acting Pioneer – For Dangal, he first gained 28 kg to play an older Mahavir Phogat, then shed all the weight to portray his younger self in the same film.