Journalism of Courage
Aamir Khan definitely deserves a tribute for his contribution to new-age cinema in the industry. As Mr. Perfectionist turns a year older today, we go back in time and remember some of his best performances till date.
Qayamat Sey Qayamat Tak (1988): At a young age of 23, Aamir Khan made his B-town debut in 'Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak', playing the iconic chocolate boy opposite Juhi Chawla. The chemistry between the two was simply crackling and the whole nation was smitten. His role as Raj earned him a Filmfare Best Debut Award. And the song 'Papa Kehey Hain Bada Naam Karega' is still etched in our minds.
Taare Zameen Par (2007): Aamir Khan made his directorial debut with 'Taare Zameen Par', where he played the fun and understanding art teacher, who becomes the only adult to understand and recognize the potential in a boy suffering from dyslexia.
Aamir Khan won many hearts as he helps the child overcome the learning disability and also beautifully conveyed a message to his audience. It won the Filmfare Best Film Award for 2008 as well as a National Award. It also received the Filmfare for best director.
Fanaa (2006): Aamir Khan took on the role of a baddie in ‘Fanna’ where he played a terrorist, who falls in love with a blind girl played by Kajol. The film faced the heat of some controversy and was banned in Gujarat, but was a big hit owning to the chemistry Aamir Khan shared with Kajol. 'Fanaa' also earned Aamir a Screen Award nomination for Best Villain.
Sarfarosh (1999): Aamir Khan's performance as ACP Ajay Singh Rathod in ‘Sarfarosh’ was well received. Also starring Sonali Bendre, the film revolved around a police officer's struggle against cross border terrorism.
Directed by John Matthew Matthan who won the Filmfare Critics Award for Best Movie, that year, ‘Sarfarosh’ was a huge hit at the Box Office and got Aamir a Filmfare best Actor nomination.
3 Idiots (2009): One of the biggest blockbusters in Indian cinema, ‘3 Idiots’ told the tale of a boy Ranchoddas Shyamaldas Chanchad who tries his best to bring to light the true meaning of education and learning. Based on a novel by Chetan Bhagat, 3 Idiots won six Filmfare Awards including best film and best director. Aamir earned an IIFA Best Actor nomination.
Rangeela (1995): Aamir Khan's role as 'tapori' Munna – a street orphan boy in Ram Gopal Varma was a turning point in his career. His chemistry with lead actress Urmila Matondkar was much appreciated and this is said to be one of his finest performances till date. The film received seven filmfare awards that year.
Rang De Basanti (2006): Said to be one of the most important films of his career, Aamir Khan broke away from the stereotypical A-lister roles with his performance of Daljeet in the Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra directed film.
Having a patriotic background, 'Rang De Basanti' was highly acclaimed for inspiring the youth and creating an awareness amongst them. It received an overwhelming response and was chosen as India's official entry for the 79th Academy Awards.
Aamir Khan received the Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actor as well as the Screen Award for Best Actor.
Lagaan (2001): Set in the Victorian period of India's colonial British Raj, Aamir Khan played the part of a village hero, who challenges the British to a game of cricket in an attempt to reduce taxes. 'Lagaan' was responsible for India's international recognition in terms of cinema. It was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Aamir’s role earned him a Best Actor Award for Filmfare as well as IIFA.
Dhoom 3 (2013): Not afraid to experiment, Aamir Khan proved that he can go beyond his comfort zone as he took on the role of Sahir, the clown thief in the third installment of the hit ‘Dhoom’ franchise. His high-action stunts earned him a Screen Best Actor nomination.
Andaz Apna Apna (1994): This Aamir-Salman starrer ranks high on our list of comedies. Aamir Khan played the part of the Amar while Salman essayed the role of Prem. The duo were a laugh riot and Aamir gave audiences a chance to see him in a lighter comic role. He received a Filmfare Best Actor nomination for his performance.
Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikander (1992): Aamir’s role as the mischievous yet endearing Sanjay Lal Sharma is one of his most well remembered performances. Directed by Mansoor Khan, this sports drama film was both fun and simple. Aamir Khan received a nomination for Filmfare Best Actor.
Akele Hum Akele Tum (1995): Though the film did not fare well at the Box office, Aamir Khan's role as Rohit, an aspiring playback singer is one of the favourites. The film deals with the struggle of a man, a single father coming to terms and accepting his wife's success.
Raakh (1989): This is said to be one of Aamir Khan's most critically acclaimed performances. He played the role of a young man looking to avenge the wrong done to his former lover after she was raped. Though it was poorly received, Aamir received a National Film Award – Special Jury Award / Special Mention (Feature Film) as well as a Filmfare Best Actor.
