CBFC Asks for Multiple Changes in Aamir Khan’s ‘Sitare Zameen Par’

KKN Gurugram Desk | Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan is once again in the spotlight — not for controversies or promotions, but for the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC)’s involvement in his upcoming film “Sitare Zameen Par”. As per recent updates, the CBFC demanded several changes in the film’s language and visuals, along with the inclusion of a quote by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the official disclaimer. After the modifications, the film was granted a U/A 13+ certificate, making it suitable for all audiences, provided children below 13 are accompanied by a parent or guardian.

The film, which is scheduled to release on June 20, 2025, is being positioned as a spiritual sequel to Aamir’s 2007 hit Taare Zameen Par. While anticipation for the film remains high, the last-minute certification challenges have become a talking point across the entertainment industry.

 What Changes Did CBFC Ask For?

According to credible reports from industry insiders, the CBFC Revising Committee recommended the following key modifications before issuing a certificate:

1. The term “businesswoman” was changed to the more neutral “business person”

2. A reference to “Michael Jackson” in a song was replaced with “Lovebirds”

3. A visual of a lotus flower (which also resembles the ruling political party’s symbol) was substituted with the word “lotus” instead

4. Most notably, the board rejected the original disclaimer and instructed filmmakers to include a new one featuring a quote by Prime Minister Narendra Modi

These suggestions came after an internal screening by the CBFC’s reviewing panel, which reportedly found certain language and visuals “politically sensitive or culturally biased.”

 PM Modi’s Quote Included in New Disclaimer

The biggest surprise came when the CBFC asked Aamir Khan’s production team to insert a quote by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the film’s opening disclaimer. While the exact quote has not been officially disclosed, it is reportedly related to youth empowerment and nation-building, aligning with the film’s inspirational theme.

A source close to the certification process mentioned, “The board felt that since the film speaks about growth, courage, and social responsibility, a message from the Prime Minister would complement the narrative in a non-political context.”

Following these changes, Sitare Zameen Par was awarded a U/A 13+ certification, clearing the way for its national release.

 Spiritual Sequel to ‘Taare Zameen Par’

Directed by R.S. Prasanna, Sitare Zameen Par is being touted as a spiritual successor to Aamir Khan’s emotionally powerful 2007 film Taare Zameen Par, which dealt with dyslexia and a child’s struggle in a rigid education system.

However, this new installment shifts tone and genre — Sitare Zameen Par is described as a sports-comedy-drama that explores teamwork, inclusion, and self-belief, particularly among children from different backgrounds.

In a recent interview, Aamir said, “While ‘Taare Zameen Par’ looked at one child’s emotional journey, this one looks at how children can rise together when they believe in themselves.”

Ten New Faces Make Their Debut

Adding to the film’s unique value is the introduction of 10 new child actors, selected from across India through a nationwide audition process. The debutants include:

• Aarush Dutta

• Gopi Krishna Verma

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• Samvit Desai

• Vedant Sharma

• Ayush Bhansali

• Ashish Pendse

• Rishi Shahani

• Rishabh Jain

• Naman Mishra

• Simran Mangeshkar

The cast brings an authentic, raw energy to the screen, and early previews have praised the chemistry between Aamir and the children.

 Release Details and Audience Expectations

Sitare Zameen Par will hit theatres across India on June 20, 2025, and advance booking has already begun in major metro cities. The film is expected to open strong due to Aamir’s brand value and the emotional nostalgia linked to Taare Zameen Par.

Industry trackers predict an opening weekend collection of ₹15-20 crore, especially if the film receives favorable word-of-mouth from family audiences.

 CBFC’s Role in Shaping Film Content

The incident once again brings to focus the growing influence of the CBFC on mainstream storytelling in India. While some hail the board’s oversight as necessary to preserve cultural sensibilities, others believe the suggested edits compromise creative freedom.

In this case, however, Aamir Khan and the production house chose to cooperate fully to ensure the film reaches audiences without delay. A statement from the production team read:

“We respect the process and the role of the CBFC. The changes suggested were made in the spirit of mutual understanding, and we look forward to sharing this inspiring story with audiences nationwide.”

The CBFC’s conditional approval of Aamir Khan’s Sitare Zameen Par is more than just a certification story — it reflects the current dynamics of filmmaking, politics, and cultural sensitivity in India. With changes implemented and the film cleared for release, audiences now eagerly await what could be another landmark family film from the actor known for socially conscious storytelling.

As the release date approaches, all eyes will be on how the public receives the movie — both for its entertainment value and the broader discussions it might ignite in the realms of education, inclusivity, and creative freedom.