Genelia Deshmukh is making a comeback to the big screen with "Sitaare Zameen Par," and she's sharing her excitement about working alongside Aamir Khan. The film, touted as a "spiritual sequel" to the 2007 hit "Taare Zameen Par," is scheduled to release on June 20, 2025.
Deshmukh, known for her bubbly roles, describes her character in "Sitaare Zameen Par" as a departure from her previous work. She emphasizes the role as "raw, emotional, and incredibly human". Genelia is seen as Aamir's love interest in the film.
Aamir Khan plays Gulshan, a basketball coach with a troubled past, who is ordered to train a team of individuals with intellectual disabilities as part of a court-ordered punishment. Initially resistant, he eventually becomes invested in their lives and helps them on a transformative journey. The film explores themes of empathy, inclusion, and the power of sports.
"Collaborating with Aamir Khan Productions again feels magical," Deshmukh said in a recent interview. The film also introduces ten new faces, including Aroush Datta, Gopi Krishna Varma, and Simran Mangeshkar, adding a fresh dynamic to the cast.
RS Prasanna, known for directing "Shubh Mangal Saavdhan," directs "Sitaare Zameen Par". Aamir Khan and Aparna Purohit produce the film under the Aamir Khan Productions banner. Prasanna praised Aamir Khan's dedication and commitment to the project. He expressed his gratitude for Khan's belief in others and his ability to inspire growth.
The trailer of "Sitaare Zameen Par" has already generated buzz, but has also drawn criticism. Some viewers have pointed out similarities between the film and the 2018 Spanish film "Champions". "Champions" tells the story of a disgraced coach who mentors a team of intellectually disabled athletes. Some netizens are trolling the film for being a "frame by frame copy".
Despite the controversies, many are viewing the trailer positively. Some social media users have described it as a "heartwarming sequel" and an "empowering glimpse" into the world of differently-abled children.
A special song featuring Aamir Khan and Genelia Deshmukh was filmed in Marol, Mumbai. The song is described as a "feel-good track" that may play during the credits, tying together the film's central themes.
"Sitaare Zameen Par" is not a direct sequel to "Taare Zameen Par". While "Taare Zameen Par" dealt with learning disabilities in children, "Sitaare Zameen Par" focuses on adults with intellectual disabilities. Aamir Khan has said that "Sitaare Zameen Par" will leave audiences laughing, whereas "Taare Zameen Par" left them in tears.