Are Maharashtrians lucky for Aamir Khan?
Aamir Khan had to field the question when a journalist asked him at a press conference in Mumbai, referring to the selection of Taare Zameen Par as India's entry to the Oscars. The journalist pointed out that the creative director for TZP was Amole Gupte while Ashutosh Gowariker had directed Lagaan, Aamir's earlier film that bagged an Oscar nom. Both Gupte and Gowariker are Maharashtrians.
In his reply, Aamir said, "I am a Marathi from Maharashtra."
His argument was that he was born and brought up in Mumbai and therefore, was a Maharashtrian.
When asked how he felt when certain films were not released in Mumbai due to linguistic problems created by some political parties, Aamir said, "Our country is one and this is the beauty of our country. At the same time, we should respect all languages and cultures of our country."
Without naming Maharashtra Navnirman Sena supreme Raj Thackeray, Aamir said, "I feel issues are created at political levels. We need to be careful of any leader, who is trying to divide us by saying he is from a different caste or religion. He is not talking in the interest of the country. We should choose leaders, who are progressive and bring peace and love in the society."
Also Read: 'I will do my best to promote TZP'
Text: Syed Firdaus Ashraf | Video: Rajesh Karkera
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