Aamir Khan needs no introduction. He’s a superstar with a successful career span of 30 years. When he takes up a film, his fans know there’s going to be something unique about it. So what’s special about Secret Superstar, his upcoming film that releases on October 19.
Directed by Advait Chandan—his manager for the past 16 years—the film is about a young girl who dreams to make it big in life like her favourite superstar. Lead star Zaira Wasim is now a household name after winning the National Award for Dangal.
Aamir who plays the superstar role says he has different shades in the film. “I hope no one will emulate this superstar though he’s a creative man. The role is a mixture of five people, it is for you to find out who they are,” says Aamir whose character comes in the second half.
“I don’t do roles that rise above the film. My role has to contribute to it, whether it’s a lead role or a character like the teacher in Taare Zameen Par.”
Zaira says she signed the film even before she signed Dangal. “We started shooting for Dangal first since I had to be trained as a wrestler. In this film too, I learnt to strum guitar and sing together.”
Has Mr Perfectionist ever emulated anyone? “I looked up to some people but never felt I have to be like them. During the shooting for Dhoom 3 in Chicago, I saw a documentary Searching for Sugar Man. I saw his life and felt I should be at least five percent like him.”
For Zaira, acting happened accidentally. “I never thought of making it big here. I was selected randomly during a school audition, and was asked to come to Mumbai and train in wrestling for Dangal. Everything was new earlier but now I feel good. My parents are proud of me.”
On doing the film with his manager, Aamir says, “Advait has a sharp mind. But that does not mean he can make a good film. I usually take a screen test of new directors. I give them five to six scenes and ask them to direct. I gave Advait this exercise and I loved what he created.”
Ask Zaira about her Dangal experience, and she is all praises. “I became friends with Aamir after Dangal so I didn’t have any problems this time. There are many things you can learn from him.”
Aamir clarifies the film is not religion specific. “Like my character of Bhuvan in Lagaan, it would have still worked even if he was not Hindu. The film is about girls who don’t get education or freedom to express themselves.”
Speaking of education, Zaira plans to continue her studies. Aamir says his journey in the industry has been full of ups and downs.
“I gained a lot but also lost something. I lost time with my mother and friends, though I am changing it now. I reach home by 6.30pm, bathe Azad, dine with him and read stories to him. Ira and Junaid are also doing great.”
Zaira says she has not signed her next film as yet but Aamir will be seen in Vijay Krishna Acharya’s Thugs of Hindustan. He says it was a great experience working with Amitabh Bachchan.