What Really Happened in Aamir Khan’s Interview About the Terror Attack and His Film Release
Aamir Khan recently spoke about why he gave a late reaction to the Pahalgam terror attack that happened on April 22. Many people on social media criticised him because he released his statement just a few hours before the trailer of his upcoming film Sitaare Zameen Par came out. The criticism came even though India had already carried out a retaliatory strike under Operation Sindoor after agreeing on a ceasefire with Pakistan.
In an interview with India TV, Aamir explained that the delay in his response was because he is not active on social media. “I’m not on social media, so I don’t respond as quickly as others. People who are there can react instantly,” he said.
Aamir strongly condemned the terror attack, calling it a cowardly act. He said, “The terrorists entered our country and fired at innocent people. They even asked people their religion before shooting. This is shameful. You or I could have been there too.” Also read: Love Jihad Debate Aamir Khan Responds to Years of Criticism.
Many accused him of speaking about the attack only because his film was about to release. In reply, Aamir said, “If I support our soldiers and speak about their strong response, how is that wrong? Should I stay quiet just because my movie is releasing? That wouldn’t be right. So I chose to speak openly.”
He also said that the timing of the film trailer release—just 12 hours after his statement—was just a coincidence. “The trailer was actually supposed to release earlier, but I postponed it because of the terror attack. I even cancelled the re-release premiere of Andaz Apna Apna on that day,” he added. The cult classic was re-released in cinemas on April 25.
Aamir also defended Islam during the interview. He said that true Islam does not support violence. “No religion tells you to kill innocent people. In Islam, it is written that you should not harm innocent humans, women, or children. So, I don’t consider these terrorists Muslims. They are doing exactly the opposite of what the religion teaches,” he explained.
He also remembered a compliment from late actor Manoj Kumar, who passed away on April 4. Aamir said that Manoj Kumar once praised him for continuing the legacy of patriotic films.
“My love for the country is always shown in my work. Look at Rang De Basanti, Lagaan, and Sarfarosh. I don’t think any actor has done more patriotic films than me,” said Aamir.
Also read: BBC Faces Backlash Over Sidhu Moose Wala Documentary.