Aamir Khan returns with a soul-stirring sports drama titled Sitaare Zameen Par. This film evokes the emotional depth found in Taare Zameen Par, but it explores new themes related to basketball and neurodiversity. In this Sitaare Zameen Par movie review, we look at how the 2025 release, directed by R.S. Prasanna, adapts the Spanish hit Champions (Campeones) into a uniquely Indian context with heart, humor, and humanity.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5 stars)
Genre: Sport | Comedy | Drama
Release Date, Director, and Cast
- Cast of Sitaare Zameen Par: Aamir Khan, Genelia D’Souza, Dolly Ahluwalia, Brijendra Kala
- Director: R. S. Prasanna
- Release Date: 20 June 2025
- Language: Hindi
What’s Special About This Film?
The film delivers heart, humor, and genuine emotion, brought to life by powerful performances, especially from the real-life neurodivergent cast. While it doesn’t directly continue Taare Zameen Par, it revisits a similar theme by focusing on understanding and empowering individuals with different abilities.”
Read: Aamir Khan’s Inspiring Movies: The Road to Sitaare Zameen Par
Story Breakdown
First Half
In Sitaare Zameen Par, Aamir Khan plays Gulshan Arora, an assistant basketball coach whose impulsive actions derail his career. After slapping a senior and getting caught drunk driving, he’s sentenced to three months of community service instead of jail. At the center, he meets nine bright and unique kids with ASD and Down Syndrome — kids who, like him, have been underestimated. Their rocky start is just the beginning of an inspiring transformation.
Second Half
As Gulshan softens, the team starts to shine. The second half focuses on their emotional growth, their bond, and their journey toward a big tournament. While some scenes feel a bit stretched, the film builds to an uplifting finale that leaves a lasting impression.
Performances & Direction
- Aamir Khan gives one of his most heartfelt performances in years. His transformation from arrogance to empathy feels sincere and earned.
- Genelia Deshmukh plays Suneeta, a counselor and moral compass in Gulshan’s journey. She’s subtle yet impactful.
- The real stars, however, are the “Sitaare” — the neurodivergent actors who bring unmatched authenticity and charm to the screen.
Director R.S. Prasanna does a commendable job of balancing drama, humor, and social commentary, never letting the story feel heavy-handed.
Music & Visuals
- Music by Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy (songs) and Ram Sampath (background score) adds emotional texture without overshadowing the scenes.
- The visuals are vibrant, focusing on everyday spaces like basketball courts, school halls, and homes. The camera lingers just enough to capture the emotions in each frame.
Themes That Resonate
- The film’s core message — “Sabka apna-apna normal hota hai” (Everyone has their own version of normal) — is delivered with warmth and grace.
- It’s about empathy, teamwork, and second chances — all packed into a feel-good underdog story.
- Critics have called it “a quiet rebellion against commercial Bollywood,” praising its subtlety and substance.
Box Office Collection & Buzz
- The film opened strong with ₹59.9 crore in its first weekend, and ₹123 crore worldwide in just 5 days.
- Celebs like Sachin Tendulkar and Sudha Murthy have praised it for its messaging.
- Darsheel Safary, the lead from Taare Zameen Par, shared that the film made his “heart feel fuller, softer, and happier.”
Final Verdict
Sitaare Zameen Par is more than just a movie — it’s a celebration of difference, resilience, and humanity. Aamir Khan reminds us why he’s known for content-driven cinema, and this film proves that stories with heart still win.
Who should watch: Families, educators, sports lovers, and anyone who believes in second chances and hidden potential.
FAQs
Q: Where can I watch Sitaare Zameen Par?
A: As of now, Sitaare Zameen Par is running in theatres across India. An OTT release is expected in the coming months, possibly on a major streaming platform.
Q: Are real neurodivergent actors cast in the movie?
A: Yes, the film proudly features neurodivergent actors playing key roles on the basketball team. Their performances bring authenticity and emotional depth to the story.
Q: Who plays the lead roles in the movie?
A: Aamir Khan stars as Gulshan Arora, a disgraced basketball coach. Genelia Deshmukh plays Suneeta, a counselor who guides and supports the team.
Q: Is Sitaare Zameen Par a sequel to Taare Zameen Par?
A: While it is not a direct sequel, many draw comparisons due to its emotional tone and Aamir Khan’s involvement. As highlighted in this Sitaare Zameen Par movie review, the film carries forward similar themes of empathy and growth.
Q: What is the box office performance of Sitaare Zameen Par?
A: The movie opened to a strong box office with ₹59.9 crore in its first weekend and crossed ₹120 crore worldwide within the first 5 days.
