Bollywood's thinking actor: Aamir Khan on 25 years in the industry

This year marks 25 years since your first movie...

I have no clue how 25 years went by, but it is surely a moment of honour for me. I can't believe I have made it successfully to this day. It feels like I joined just yesterday.

When I first came here, I wondered if I’d be successful. They say an actor’s lifecycle is five years. Then various factors affect his career – either the audience gets bored, or competition kills it. But somehow I have survived all of this and here I am… celebrating my 25 years the same year that Indian cinema completes 100 years.

I would like to thank the directors and everyone who has helped me make this journey. Some names I would especially like to take are Nasir and Mansoor saab, who directed my first film. Let's not forget all those technicians, music directors, co-actors and most importantly, the audience which tolerated me while watching my movies and gave me unconditional love and affection.

I would also like to remember my family who helped me be a part of this industry. Thank God for all of this.

You had a golden debut...

When I joined the industry, I never knew how famous I would get. ‘Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak’ made me a star overnight; I was surrounded by adulation. Then I had a spate of three to four unsuccessful movies. 

These were movies I wasn’t supposed to do, but I learnt from the mistakes and moved on. Ever since then, I made my mind that I wouldn’t do a film for money, success, fame or because it was a big banner. I would decide from my heart. Only if I felt for the movie, would I be a part of it. I have stuck to this method till date. If a script doesn’t touch my heart, I don’t do it.

What was your first day at a shoot like?

My first day for shoot was in Ooty with Mansoor (Khan). The first take was over and it got all foggy. We thought the fog would go away in an hour or so, but it stayed for eight hours. We thought this was a sign, as people can be superstitious. But it doesn't matter if you have a bad start. You can always work towards the future if you believe in yourself.

Is working alone a challenge?

When you are alone, there is nothing to be scared of. When I started working my way, people assumed that I wouldn’t be able to stick around for long. They thought I was choosing films foolishly. It is by the grace of God that I have been successful.

Power is only useful to those who know how to use it. If you don't use your will power to help others, what's the point of having it at the first place? I walk the path that I feel is right. I am not scared of a new path, nor am I scared of taking risks. If one has truth and courage by his or her side, the person will surely win.

Are there any films you regret choosing?

I have no such regrets. Some of my films weren't good enough and were unsuccessful at the box office, but whatever I am today, I learnt from all those films. I give my failures as much credit as I do to my successes.

What are the two integral qualities of Aamir Khan?

 I have two qualities that are good and bad at the same time. One of them is a passion to accomplish tasks. Secondly, I am stubborn, which gives me a lot of energy. When someone tells me not to do a particular film, I do it on purpose.

How are your relations with the media?

You are often seen playing hide and seek with them. Currently, I have a very good relationship with the media. There was a point in my career when the media would write many untrue things about me and I would be very hurt. I am a very emotional creature. When I didn't interact with the media, they assumed things and wrote about them. When I was quiet, they would assume I was fighting.

In 'Taare Zameen Par', my character asks Dr Shetty what do children need the most – security, dignity, faith or love? If the first three things don’t exist, there is no point of love. I realised that this also holds true for people and thought about all my soured relationships with this in mind. When I gave the media these virtues, our relationship automatically got better.

Name a legendary actress whom you admire...

Without doubt it has to be the one and only, Madhubala. Just one smile from her and that was it... you were floored.

What do you think about Salman’s (Khan) marriage and Sanjay’s (Dutt) imprisonment?

I don’t think we should talk about this...

What do you think about ‘Bombay Talkies’, the tribute movie?

It made me glad and sad that I couldn't make such a film. It's nice to see such talent.

On personal front, do you plan to get into politics?

(Firmly) I have no such plans…

Who are your favourite actors?

Dilip Kumar-ji. He is one of the best. I regret that I haven't had a chance to work with him yet.

What are your favourite films?

‘Pyaasa’, ‘Mother India’, ‘Mughal-e-Azam’ and ‘Garam Hawa’ to name a few.
 

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