Bollywood icon Aamir Khan's son, Junaid Khan, is forging his own path in the film industry with his debut movie, "Maharaj". Directed by Siddharth P Malhotra and featuring Jaideep Ahlawat, this film delves into the Maharaj Libel Case, shedding light on exploitation within spiritual communities. Junaid's entry with "Maharaj" signals a fresh wave of narratives in Bollywood.
In a candid interview, Junaid shared his father's reaction to his performance. Aamir, known for his supportive yet discerning nature, generally watches films with an open and appreciative mindset. “No, I think he liked the film. But that is also…he likes everything. As an audience and when he watches something he wants to enjoy it, so he ends up liking it. Barring his own films where he’s not an audience,” Junaid revealed to Hindustan Times.
Junaid is determined to carve out his own identity, steering clear of comparisons to his famous father and the ‘perfectionist’ label. He believes in everyone finding their own way and is savoring his journey. “Everybody has to do their own thing. Life pans out differently for everybody. I’m on this journey, enjoying myself,” he stated.
"Maharaj" stands out as a distinctive debut, and Junaid is embracing the unconventional route. Securing a role with the prestigious Yash Raj Films (YRF) and under the direction of Siddharth Malhotra was a significant achievement. His extensive theatre experience since 2017 also played a crucial role. Junaid doesn’t confine himself to specific genres, acknowledging that producers might not envision him in traditional romantic roles. “I’m not sure if it's unconventional because YRF is a major banner and Sid sir wanted me for the role. The story itself is very dramatic,” he told PTI.
Also read: Junaid Khan’s co-star Sai Pallavi shares the sweetest message for his debut performance in Maharaj
“I have been doing theatre in Mumbai since 2017. Sid sir asked me to come and test for this film. I didn't think of it as conventional or unconventional. I guess producers and directors didn't see me in romantic dramas. You do the work you get but it was a lovely script. It is such a wide medium, I don't think there is any protection in films,” Junaid added.
Reflecting on whether he discussed "Maharaj" with his father, the 31-year-old said, “Film ke baare mein itna discussion nahi hua Papa se (I didn’t discuss much about the film with my father)’. It is not his film and he is busy with his work. Sid sir and Adi sir showed him the film. He liked it and had some suggestions. They took some of it and didn’t take the others.”
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