One week since Aamir Khan’s Sitaare Zameen Par hit theatres, and while the film has collected over ₹85 crore, people are still talking about it, though not necessarily in a good way.
The film featured a few side stories that added humour and depth, one of which involved Gulshan’s mother having a romantic relationship with their cook, Daulat Ji.
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While this subplot was meant to add lightness and charm, many viewers didn’t take it as a simple joke.
Social media erupted with criticism, particularly targeting the idea of an elderly Indian woman moving on after her husband left her. Some argued that showing her in a relationship, especially with a servant, goes against Indian culture.
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Many questioned the motive behind portraying such a storyline and claimed it was “unacceptable” to show an older Indian woman remarrying, especially to someone from a lower socio-economic background.
In response, others pointed out the hypocrisy. Indian films have showcased far more vulgar content under the guise of humour, yet no one calls that out as being against the spirit of the “Indian woman.”
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Some users even called out the casteist undertone of the backlash, highlighting how the real issue may not be her age or remarriage, but the fact that she marries the cook.
The intention behind this plotline was clear, to normalize older women reclaiming their right to live freely and find love again. It highlighted that life doesn’t stop just because a woman is widowed or abandoned.
This arc wasn’t part of the original film, it was added by Aamir Khan. And frankly, it became one of the most impactful and widely loved side plots of the film for many.
