Aamir Khan recently addressed the tendency of Bollywood fans and media to focus primarily on the Khans—himself, Salman Khan, and Shah Rukh Khan—when discussing top film achievements from the 80s and 90s. Pointing out that actors like Salman Khan have delivered milestone performances, he emphasized the importance of appreciating Salman Khan’s achievements alongside 90s Bollywood superstars such as Akshay Kumar, Ajay Devgn, and Hrithik Roshan.
During a podcast discussion, Aamir expressed his surprise at the prevailing bias that places the Khans at the forefront of recognition, despite substantial contributions from other prominent actors of their era. While noting that he, Salman Khan, and Shah Rukh Khan have produced blockbuster hits, Aamir was quick to acknowledge the enduring presence of Akshay Kumar, Ajay Devgn, and Hrithik Roshan and the remarkable successes each has attained in a career spanning decades.
He voiced his discomfort regarding this selective acclaim, underlining that the journey through the Hindi film industry has included a range of accomplished performers who all deserve their share of admiration. Recognizing that other stars have shared both the challenges and triumphs with the Khans, Aamir advocated for equal appreciation. As he stated,
“Mujhe bura lagta hai ki humare saath saath Ajay Devgn bhi itne hi saal chale hai, Akshay Kumar bhi itne hi saal chale hai, Hrithik bhi itne hi saal chale hai,”
—Aamir Khan, Actor
This sentiment illustrates Aamir’s view that the contributions of Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, and Hrithik Roshan across numerous hit films and years in the industry are on par with those of the Khans and deserve greater acknowledgment by audiences and critics alike.
Addressing Thoughts on Rivalry and Jealousy
Aamir Khan also spoke candidly about the ideas of competition and envy that are often perceived among major Bollywood actors, especially those who dominated the industry in the 1990s and beyond. He refuted suggestions that his relationship with peers like Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan is defined by rivalry, insisting that he seeks inspiration rather than competition from others’ success stories. For Aamir, negativity has no productive role in his approach to acting or career development.
Reflections on Shah Rukh Khan’s Success with DDLJ
The conversation turned to Shah Rukh Khan’s signature film, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), which continues to enjoy screenings in theatres decades after its release. When discussing DDLJ’s enduring popularity, Aamir stated that he values the movie’s success without feeling compelled to compete or emulate it.
“Main usse thodu compete kar raha hoon?,”
—Aamir Khan, Actor
This remark further clarifies that his artistic standards are measured internally, focusing on his own growth rather than on surpassing his contemporaries or responding to external pressure.
Aamir Khan’s Upcoming Projects
Switching topics, Aamir Khan confirmed plans for his return to the big screen with the new film Sitaare Zameen Par. The actor assured fans that this project is slated for a theatrical release and set to premiere for movie-goers on June 20. This announcement marks a highly anticipated comeback after a period away from acting, illustrating his continued relevance in the film industry.
The ongoing discussion about recognition and equality among major Hindi film actors serves as a reminder of the diverse talents shaping Bollywood’s golden age and beyond. As Aamir Khan places the spotlight on deserved achievements—such as Salman Khan’s achievements alongside 90s Bollywood superstars, as well as those of Akshay Kumar, Ajay Devgn, and Hrithik Roshan—the conversation may inspire both fans and industry insiders to reassess how credit is distributed, and to create a more balanced appreciation for those who have shaped cinematic history.
