Why Aamir Khan met Turkish President? Actor addresses controversial photo after Turkey supports Pakistan. 'Galat baat hai'

Time of India

15-06-2025

Bollywood actor Aamir Khan has finally spoken out about the backlash surrounding his past meetings with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and First Lady Emine Erdogan. The controversy, which reignited following Turkey's reported support to Pakistan during its conflict with India under Operation Sindoor, has sparked public outrage, with growing calls to boycott Turkish goods and tourism. In an appearance on Aap Ki Adalat, Khan addressed these concerns in a conversation with journalist Rajat Sharma, expressing deep regret over the situation and aligning himself with national sentiment.
Khan Denounces Turkey's Stance
Responding to questions on Turkey's alleged support to Pakistan through the supply of drones, Khan did not mince words. He firmly stated, 'Turkey ne bahut galat kiya (Turkey has done the wrong thing), and every Indian is hurt.' He recalled that when Turkey was hit by a devastating earthquake in 2023, it was India that promptly extended humanitarian aid. He emphasised that neither he nor the Indian government anticipated Turkey's later geopolitical decisions, which are now seen as antagonistic to Indian interests.
Context Behind Controversial Photos
Khan addressed the resurfaced photos of his meetings with Turkish leadership, offering clarification on the timing and circumstances. He stated that his meeting with President Erdogan occurred in 2017, a time when diplomatic relations between India and Turkey were still stable. The widely circulated image with First Lady Emine Erdogan, believed by many to be from 2020 during the filming of Laal Singh Chaddha, was, according to Khan, taken even earlier.
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He said his role as a public figure and informal cultural ambassador often requires him to respond to diplomatic invitations, and added, 'When someone tells me that you will come for tea, it does not feel right for me to say no.'
Support for Boycott Campaign
The actor voiced support for the nationwide boycott of Turkish goods and travel. He said he understood why citizens were upset and backed their decision, stating, 'They are doing the right thing. We must not support a country that is siding with those who attack us.' Khan described Turkey's recent stance as a betrayal, especially given India's assistance during their time of need. He reiterated, 'Bahut hi galat baat hai.'
Khan was clear in distancing himself from any political narrative, stressing that his actions were not politically motivated and that he now views those past meetings in a different light due to shifting geopolitical realities. Throughout the interview, he maintained that his allegiance lies firmly with India and its people.