Mumbai, April 25, 2025 — In an emotionally charged decision, Bollywood icon Aamir Khan chose to skip the much-anticipated re-release screening of his cult classic film Andaz Apna Apna, citing his deep grief over the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The attack, which claimed the lives of 25 tourists and left the nation stunned, has cast a pall of mourning across the entertainment industry and the country at large.
“In No State to Attend,” Says Aamir Khan
The special screening of Andaz Apna Apna, held in Mumbai, was expected to be a grand nostalgic affair, celebrating one of Bollywood’s most beloved comedies. However, Aamir Khan’s absence became the talking point of the evening. The actor released a solemn statement hours before the screening:
“I was reading reports about what happened at Pahalgam in Kashmir. I have been badly affected by the senseless killing of innocents. I was in no state to go to the preview. I will see it sometime later this week.”
His words reflect the somber mood that has gripped the nation in the aftermath of the horrifying attack, which is being seen as a direct strike against peace and tourism in the Valley.
A Dark Shadow Over A Celebratory Re-Release
Andaz Apna Apna, directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, was originally released in 1994 and featured Aamir Khan and Salman Khan in a comic duel of epic proportions, supported by Raveena Tandon and Karisma Kapoor. While it failed to impress at the box office initially, it has since evolved into a cult comedy classic, cherished for its quotable lines, absurd humor, and iconic characters.
The re-release was set to be a celebratory event for fans and the film industry alike — a rare moment of joy and nostalgia. However, the atmosphere was visibly subdued in the wake of the Pahalgam incident. Celebrities attending the event shared their solidarity with the victims, some even donning black ribbons as a mark of respect.
Aamir’s Emotional Connection to the Film
In a recent conversation ahead of the re-release, Aamir reflected on the film’s unexpected journey to legendary status:
“Raj Santoshi and I were the only two people who believed in the film. We loved it. So, when it didn’t work initially, we were both sad. And then it goes on to become my biggest success on home entertainment! Both Raj and I were finally redeemed.”
His decision to skip the screening despite this emotional connection underscores the depth of his response to the national tragedy.
Bollywood Reacts to the Pahalgam Attack
Aamir Khan is not the only one shaken by the attack. Several Bollywood celebrities, including Akshay Kumar, Kangana Ranaut, Anupam Kher, and Yami Gautam, have taken to social media to express their anger and grief. Many have called for stronger action against cross-border terrorism and have urged citizens to support the families of the victims.
The attack in Pahalgam, which targeted a group of domestic tourists and a local guide, has been condemned widely by political leaders, with the government launching a high-level investigation into the breach of security in what was considered a safe zone in South Kashmir.
What’s Next for Aamir Khan?
Aamir Khan, who was last seen in Laal Singh Chaddha, is currently working on Sitaare Zameen Par, a spiritual sequel to his critically acclaimed 2007 drama Taare Zameen Par. The new project reportedly focuses on children with learning difficulties, continuing Aamir’s tradition of making cinema that combines emotion with a message.
While Sitaare Zameen Par is slated for release later this year, Aamir’s recent actions have reaffirmed his image as a thoughtful public figure — one who does not shy away from standing with the nation in moments of grief.
A Moment of Silence in a Time of Nostalgia
The juxtaposition of a terror attack and a film re-release is stark — but it is also a reminder of the times we live in. Andaz Apna Apna gave audiences joy and laughter for over three decades, but today, even its most iconic ambassador finds himself unable to celebrate, choosing instead to mourn with the rest of the country.
In a time when the industry often moves on swiftly, Aamir Khan’s quiet refusal to participate in festivities while lives were lost serves as a poignant statement — one that resonates far beyond cinema.
A Legacy Film, A Painful Present
Andaz Apna Apna will continue its re-run in theaters across the country, likely drawing crowds looking to relive the golden era of Bollywood comedy. But the shadow of Pahalgam looms large.
Aamir Khan’s absence from the screening wasn’t just a missed photo-op — it was a reminder that cinema, however magical, is rooted in reality. And right now, the reality is one of mourning.
