Aamir Khan’s Sitaare Zameen Par, set for release on June 20, 2025, has stirred buzz not just for its heartfelt story but also for a surprising Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) directive. The film received a U/A certificate after five changes, including adding a quote by Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the opening disclaimer. This unusual request has sparked curiosity. Why did the CBFC insist on this, and what’s the story behind it?
The CBFC’s Revising Committee, led by Waman Kendre, cleared Sitaare Zameen Par but mandated including a PM Modi quote referencing India’s 2047 independence centenary, likely tied to the Viksit Bharat vision for a developed nation. The exact quote isn’t public, but it follows a revised 26-second voice-over disclaimer, replacing a 30-second visual. This move is rare, as the CBFC typically regulates content, not adds political quotes, prompting questions about its intent.
Why the Modi quote? Several theories exist. It may align with Viksit Bharat, complementing the film’s theme of inclusivity, as it follows a coach training intellectually disabled players. Alternatively, it could balance the removal of “kamal” to avoid political bias claims. Some speculate it’s a broader push to embed government messaging in cinema, with X users calling it “propaganda” or questioning if the CBFC acts as a PR tool. Without official statements from CBFC’s chairperson or Kendre, the reasoning remains unclear.
