Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat presented the Vishesh Puraskar to Aamir Khan for his performance of a retired Haryanavi wrestler in Nitesh Tiwari’s sports biopic from last year, Dangal. He played the role of Mahavir Phogat, former wrestler who trained his daughters Geeta and Babita in wrestling.
Aamir Khan has always refused to attend award shows. He did not even appear at the Filmfare Awards earlier this year when he was awarded in the Best Actor in a Leading Role category.
However, the actor made an exception for veteran singer Lata Mangeshkar when he agreed to receive a special award at the Dinanath Mangeshkar Awards.
In a report in India times Aamir boycotted award shows after 1993 when he lost the Best Actor in a Leading Role award to Anil Kapoor. The latter reportedly bribed to fetch the award for his family drama, Indra Kumar’s Beta. Aamir felt that his sports drama, Mansoor Khan’s Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikander was a superior film and was left disillusioned.
Lata Mangeshkar said, “I know he doesn’t collect awards. But he has made an exception for us. Aamir is indeed one of my favourite actors. Though we don’t meet any more I know there is enormous mutual respect between us.”
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Its good change for Amir I would say one of the better Khans. To make a film from true story is tough job and since I saw Lagan also based upon historic events I always make a point to watch all his films. He seems more a citizen Kane character than some of the other big stars who appear to be interested in making money. so well done for the award
Right thing to do.
In India, not all who deserves get the praise. it goes with the territory. Then it is not much different here either. Her majesty’s awards like OBE, MBE, CBE etc is supposed to go to unsung hero, who has provided selfless services. Yet these awards mostly go to famous actors, writers, sport personalities, politicians, businessmen etc whose names hug our screes day in, day out and earn millions from their chosen professions. They have already benefited enormously and these awards are just a show-piece, does not change their lives in any manner what so ever. Even those who deliver Royal babies, a part of their duty, routine get rewarded.
For a short time, under Tony Blair, ordinary people like lollipop ladies, dedicated teachers and unknown health professionals, even road sweepers were awarded such honors on rare occasions, but not any more.