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Business Standard
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Standard
India-Spain Cultural Exchange Highlights Disability Inclusion through Film and Dialogue
VMPL New Delhi [India], July 4: The Embassy of Spain to India, in collaboration with ETI Services and the Agatsu Foundation, hosted a landmark cultural event titled "Sitaare Zameen Par: India and Spain in Conversation on Inclusion through Disability-focused Cinema" at Siri Fort Auditorium, New Delhi. Anchored in the power of storytelling, the event brought together filmmakers, disability rights advocates, and cultural leaders from India and Spain to explore how cinema can advance empathy, dignity, and inclusion for persons with disabilities. The event opened with welcome remarks by Alfonso Herrero Corral, Counsellor at the Embassy of Spain, who emphasized the role of cultural diplomacy in amplifying the voices of persons with disabilities and the potential of cinema as a catalyst for social change. The opening session, "Our Journeys," featured a compelling conversation with disability rights activists who reflected on their lived experiences and the challenges and transformations that shaped their advocacy. Moderated by Ira Khan, Founder and Director of the Agatsu Foundation, the panel included Sushama Nagarkar, Parag Namdeo, Divyanshu Ganatra, and Danish Mahajan. Their dialogue illuminated the systemic barriers faced by persons with disabilities and called for more inclusive, accessible, and affirming spaces--both on and off screen. Summarizing the conversations in the panel, Ira added, "Disability isn't an inability -- and it certainly isn't charity. What we heard today wasn't about exceptionalism, but about the right to live, work, and create with dignity. It's time we moved beyond tokenism, beyond pity, and started treating persons with disabilities as equals -- not someday, but now". This was followed by an address by H.E. Juan Antonio March Pujol, Ambassador of Spain to India, who reaffirmed Spain's commitment to advancing disability inclusion and strengthening cultural collaboration with India. In his remarks, he highlighted the shared responsibility of nations to ensure that no one is left behind in narratives of progress, especially in the arts and public life. On the transformative potential of art to bring about impact, the Ambassador remarked, "What cinema can do -- in a way that policy or programming sometimes cannot -- is shift imagination. It shows us what is possible, helps us see each other more fully, and reminds us that dignity must never be optional.". The second half of the event featured a dialogue on inclusion through movies, bringing together the cast and creators behind Sitaare Zameen Par and Spain's celebrated film Campeones. The panel included Aamir Khan (Actor and Producer, joining virtually), Jesus Vidal (Actor, Campeones, joining virtually), Aparna Purohit (CEO, Aamir Khan Productions), R.S. Prasanna (Director), and Divy Nidhi Sharma (Writer), and was moderated by Sukriti Chauhan, CEO of ETI Services. The conversation explored the ethics and impact of representation, the responsibilities of filmmakers, and the personal journeys behind both films. Speaking from his experience as a filmmaker, producer and actor, Aamir Khan remarked, "I have a dream -- that one day, there will be no segregation. We're so quick to judge, but often it's those we label as 'different' who show us the greatest empathy, warmth, and humanity. Inclusion means we stop creating separate spaces -- and start creating shared ones". Addressing the importance of gatherings like these, R.S Prasanna said, ""We need to create cinema that leaves a mark beyond the box office. If even one heart shifts because of a story we've told, that's enough. And today, more than ever, I believe we're ready to come together -- in theatres and in spirit -- to celebrate that kind of change." Drawing from the multiple perspectives from the panel, Sukriti remarked, "Representation is not just about being seen -- it's about being understood. This conversation reminded us that inclusion isn't decorative. It is foundational to meaningful future developments." The day concluded with a special screening of Sitaare Zameen Par, a film that resonated with audiences for its sensitive and transformative portrayal of childhood, disability, neurodivergence and the need for compassionate social systems, serving as a cinematic anchor for the day's conversations. As the host for the day, Stephy Stephen, Senior Research Analyst at ETI Services, guided the flow of the event throughout the day. This cultural exchange between India and Spain reinforces the belief that inclusive storytelling is not only about visibility, but about justice -- and when lived experiences meet the lens of cinema, they build bridges across borders and bring marginalised voices to the center of public discourse. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
The Wire
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Wire
India–Spain Cultural Exchange Highlights Disability Inclusion through Film and Dialogue
New Delhi, July 4, 2025 — The Embassy of Spain to India, in collaboration with ETI Services and the Agatsu Foundation, hosted a landmark cultural event titled 'Sitaare Zameen Par: India and Spain in Conversation on Inclusion through Disability-focused Cinema' at Siri Fort Auditorium, New Delhi. Anchored in the power of storytelling, the event brought together filmmakers, disability rights advocates, and cultural leaders from India and Spain to explore how cinema can advance empathy, dignity, and inclusion for persons with disabilities. The event opened with welcome remarks by Alfonso Herrero Corral, Counsellor at the Embassy of Spain, who emphasized the role of cultural diplomacy in amplifying the voices of persons with disabilities and the potential of cinema as a catalyst for social change. The opening session, 'Our Journeys,' featured a compelling conversation with disability rights activists who reflected on their lived experiences and the challenges and transformations that shaped their advocacy. Moderated by Ira Khan, Founder and Director of the Agatsu Foundation, the panel included Sushama Nagarkar, Parag Namdeo, Divyanshu Ganatra, and Danish Mahajan. Their dialogue illuminated the systemic barriers faced by persons with disabilities and called for more inclusive, accessible, and affirming spaces—both on and off screen. Summarizing the conversations in the panel, Ira added, 'Disability isn't an inability — and it certainly isn't charity. What we heard today wasn't about exceptionalism, but about the right to live, work, and create with dignity. It's time we moved beyond tokenism, beyond pity, and started treating persons with disabilities as equals — not someday, but now'. This was followed by an address by H.E. Juan Antonio March Pujol, Ambassador of Spain to India, who reaffirmed Spain's commitment to advancing disability inclusion and strengthening cultural collaboration with India. In his remarks, he highlighted the shared responsibility of nations to ensure that no one is left behind in narratives of progress, especially in the arts and public life. On the transformative potential of art to bring about impact, the Ambassador remarked, 'What cinema can do — in a way that policy or programming sometimes cannot — is shift imagination. It shows us what is possible, helps us see each other more fully, and reminds us that dignity must never be optional.'. The second half of the event featured a dialogue on inclusion through movies, bringing together the cast and creators behind Sitaare Zameen Par and Spain's celebrated film Campeones. The panel included Aamir Khan (Actor and Producer, joining virtually), Jesús Vidal (Actor, Campeones, joining virtually), Aparna Purohit (CEO, Aamir Khan Productions), R.S. Prasanna (Director), and Divy Nidhi Sharma (Writer), and was moderated by Sukriti Chauhan, CEO of ETI Services. The conversation explored the ethics and impact of representation, the responsibilities of filmmakers, and the personal journeys behind both films. Speaking from his experience as a filmmaker, producer and actor, Aamir Khan remarked, 'I have a dream — that one day, there will be no segregation. We're so quick to judge, but often it's those we label as 'different' who show us the greatest empathy, warmth, and humanity. Inclusion means we stop creating separate spaces — and start creating shared ones'. Addressing the importance of gatherings like these, R.S Prasanna said, ''We need to create cinema that leaves a mark beyond the box office. If even one heart shifts because of a story we've told, that's enough. And today, more than ever, I believe we're ready to come together — in theatres and in spirit — to celebrate that kind of change.' Drawing from the multiple perspectives from the panel, Sukriti remarked, 'Representation is not just about being seen — it's about being understood. This conversation reminded us that inclusion isn't decorative. It is foundational to meaningful future developments.' The day concluded with a special screening of Sitaare Zameen Par, a film that resonated with audiences for its sensitive and transformative portrayal of childhood, disability, neurodivergence and the need for compassionate social systems, serving as a cinematic anchor for the day's conversations. As the host for the day, Stephy Stephen, Senior Research Analyst at ETI Services, guided the flow of the event throughout the day. This cultural exchange between India and Spain reinforces the belief that inclusive storytelling is not only about visibility, but about justice — and when lived experiences meet the lens of cinema, they build bridges across borders and bring marginalised voices to the center of public discourse. (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with NRDPL and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.).
Hindustan Times
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Ira Khan on Aamir Khan being an absent parent: ‘He takes a larger volume of blame upon himself'
Actor Aamir Khan has a special bond with his daughter Ira Khan today, but he still grapples with the guilt of being largely absent from her life when she was growing up. Despite their current closeness, the memories of his past absence continue to weigh on him. Also read: Aamir Khan's daughter Ira Khan calls parent-child relationship very complicated: 'You're supposed to see them as people' Aamir and Ira spoke about their relationship and how it has evolved over time during an interview with Pinkvilla, which was held at the Agatsu Foundation, a centre for mental well-being run by Ira. When asked about how he deals with this feeling of guilt, Aamir said, 'I was lost within the magic of films and cinema, and I realised my absence after 35 years, and I felt extremely guilty. You also realise that you are never going to get that time back, and that disturbs you... I don't sweep things under the carpet and avoid dealing with them. I like to live with my feelings. That's why whenever any of my movies don't do well, I feel depressed. I mourn them because I feel that if I don't do that, it will stay with me for the rest of my life.' Ira also spoke about her relationship with Aamir, and her thoughts on forgiveness and healing. Ira said, 'He takes a larger volume of blame upon himself than I actually assign to him. In my mind, the blame is also on me, and there are a few things that even I don't do well, like not knowing how to feel and express anger. I have been trying to be better in the past 2 years, and once that happens, then I can decide what exactly I am angry about, and then the forgiving can begin.' Ira Khan is the daughter of Aamir and his first wife, Reena Dutta. Her younger brother, Junaid Khan, is an actor who made his film debut in 2024. Ira tied the knot with her longtime boyfriend Nupur Shikhare. Aamir and Reena got married in 1986. They also have a daughter, Ira Khan. Aamir and Reena divorced in 2002. He later married Kiran Rao in 2005 but parted ways in 2021, after 16 years of marriage. They have a son--Azad. On the film front, Aamir will be seen in Sitaare Zameen Par next. The film is a spiritual sequel to his 2008 hit, Taare Zameen Par.
Economic Times
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Economic Times
Aamir Khan's daughter Ira addresses mental health struggle: 'Felt useless'
Ira Khan, daughter of Aamir Khan, revealed her past struggles with feeling unproductive and guilty for not being financially independent despite her parents' support. Aamir Khan reassured her that her meaningful work with the Agatsu Foundation, focused on mental health, was more valuable than monetary success. He emphasized that making a positive impact is what truly matters. Choosing a different path from her father Aamir Khan's cinematic legacy, Ira Khan has been steadily carving a space for herself through theatre initiatives and social work Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Choosing a different path from her father Aamir Khan 's cinematic legacy, Ira Khan has been steadily carving a space for herself through theatre initiatives and social work. In a recent heartfelt interview, Ira opened up about the emotional hurdles she faces, admitting she occasionally feels guilty for not achieving financial independence, even as she approaches her a candid conversation with Pinkvilla, the 28-year-old shared her internal battles from a few years ago when self-doubt and guilt took a heavy toll. "At 26 or 27, I was overwhelmed by the thought that despite everything my parents had poured into me, I wasn't giving anything back," Ira confessed. She expressed that she grappled with a sense of purposelessness and a fear of disappointing her supportively, Aamir Khan stepped in to provide perspective. He clarified that Ira's emotional turmoil primarily stemmed from not earning her own income before she founded the Agatsu Foundation — a nonprofit dedicated to promoting mental health awareness While Ira openly admitted her dissatisfaction with her career progress at the time, Aamir lovingly reassured her that financial achievement was never a benchmark of success for him. "It doesn't bother me whether you earn money or not," he told her with warmth. "What matters most is that you're pursuing meaningful work and impacting lives for the better." Reflecting philosophically, he added, "Money is nothing more than a collective agreement — beyond that, it's just paper."Ira Khan is the daughter of Aamir and his first wife, Reena Dutta. She shares a close bond with her younger brother, Junaid Khan, who recently stepped into the world of cinema with his debut film, launched in the personal front, Ira has also embraced a new chapter, marrying her longtime partner, fitness coach Nupur Shikhare, in an intimate Aamir Khan, ever dynamic, is preparing for his upcoming feature film Sitaare Zameen Par , positioned as a spiritual sequel to his acclaimed 2008 release Taare Zameen Par. The details about the movie's cast and premiere are still under wraps, fueling excitement among fans eager to see what emotional journey Aamir will embark on stepping away from Bollywood fame, Ira Khan's honesty, resilience, and commitment to mental health advocacy are helping her build a legacy that's uniquely her own — one defined by passion rather than pressure.
Indian Express
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Aamir Khan's daughter Ira Khan admits feeling ‘guilty' and ‘useless' for not earning money at 27: ‘Main duniya mein bekar insaan hoon, kuch nahi kar rahi'
Aamir Khan's daughter Ira Khan has often spoken candidly about her mental health struggles. In a recent interview, Ira shared that she felt 'guilty' and 'useless' for not earning and being financially dependent on her parents in her late 20s. In a conversation with Pinkvilla, Ira recalled a time a few years ago when she felt guilty for not contributing financially. 'Main 26-27 saal ki hoon, mere maa baap ne mere upar bahut paise kharch kiye hain, aur main duniya mein bekar insaan hoon, main kuch nahi kar rahi hoon. (My parents have spent a lot of money on me. I am 26–27 years old, and I feel like a useless person in this world. I am not doing anything),' the 28-year-old shared. Aamir interrupted and said that Ira wanted to imply that she was 'not earning money or doing something worthy' before she started Agatsu Foundation, their mental health support NGO. He added that it was never an issue for him that Ira wasn't pursuing a source of income—instead, he felt proud that she chose to dedicate herself to helping others. 'Aap paise kama rahe ho ya nahi, wo mere liye important nahi hai. Aap kaam accha kar rahe ho, ye mere liye important hai.' (You are helping so many people, and that means a lot to me. Whether you are earning money or not is not important; the good work you are doing is),' the Dangal actor said and continued, 'Money is actually a promissory note that everyone decides to agree to — or else it's just a piece of paper.' For the unversed, Ira Khan is the daughter of Aamir Khan and his ex-wife Reena Dutta, and sister of actor Junaid Khan. Meanwhile, on the professional front, Aamir will next be seen in Sitaare Zameen Par.
