Aamir Khan’s Sitaare Zameen Par likely to be delayed over CBFC cuts dispute: Report

Sitaare Zameen Par likely to be delayed

Days before its planned release, Aamir Khan's eagerly awaited comeback movie Sitaare Zameen Par has encountered an unforeseen obstacle.

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in India is reportedly requesting two edits that Aamir is reportedly unwilling to make, and the film is presently awaiting certification from them.

Directed by Shubh Mangal Saavdhan filmmaker R.S. Prasanna, the film marks Aamir’s return to the big screen after his 2022 release Laal Singh Chaddha. Sitaare Zameen Par is set for a theatrical release on 20 June 2025. However, the absence of a censor certificate has stalled advance bookings and promotional momentum.

Speaking to Bollywood Hungama, a source revealed, “The CBFC has asked for two cuts. Aamir Khan feels the film should be passed without these cuts. He and director R S Prasanna have made the film with a lot of thought. Certain scenes and dialogues, when seen in context, seem completely appropriate."

The specifics of the cuts requested by the CBFC have not been disclosed. However, the issue has reportedly resulted in a stalemate, delaying the certification process.

The insider added, “With Aamir Khan not accepting the cuts, the censor certificate wasn’t awarded to Sitaare Zameen Par. Aamir now plans to once again meet the CBFC Examining Committee on Monday and put forward his point of view. Hopefully, a solution will be achieved and the CBFC will pass the film on June 16. Once that’s done, the advance booking of the film will be thrown open. As per rules, cinemas can’t sell tickets in the absence of a censor certificate.”

Also Read: Ajith Kumar steals the spotlight with dapper look at Chennai passport office, watch video

Interestingly, the film has already been cleared by the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) with a 12A certificate, meaning viewers aged 12 and above may watch it, and younger children may attend if accompanied by an adult.

Sitaare Zameen Par is inspired by the acclaimed Spanish film Champions, and centres on a tough but empathetic coach, played by Aamir, who mentors a team of ten specially-abled children in the game of football. The film also stars Genelia Deshmukh in a pivotal role.