Aamir Khan in China and Turkey: Cinema, Diplomacy, and Connection

June 23, 2025

Aamir Khan's "Sitaare Zameen Par" has garnered favorable reviews from both critics and viewers. Although the film's pre-release anticipation was moderate, the positive word of mouth has significantly contributed to its impressive box office collection over the weekend. Additionally, it will be interesting to observe the reception in China and Turkey.

Aamir Khan’s “Sitaare Zameen Par” has garnered favorable reviews from both critics and viewers. Although the film’s pre-release anticipation was moderate, the positive word of mouth has significantly contributed to its impressive box office collection over the weekend. Additionally, it will be interesting to observe the reception in China and Turkey.

Here are the connections Aamir Khan has with China and Turkey:

Connection with China: Aamir opened the Chinese market for Bollywood—Lagaan had the first nationwide release there, followed by cult hits like 3 Idiots, Taare Zameen Par, and Ghajini, which solidified his fanbase. Dangal became the highest-grossing Indian film in China, earning approximately ¥1.3 billion (around ₹1,400 cr). Secret Superstar also broke Chinese box office records and enhanced his reputation as the ‘king of the Chinese box office’.

Cultural Influence & Voice The social themes in Aamir’s films (such as female empowerment and education) resonated profoundly with Chinese audiences—Chinese diplomats have even commended his work. Aamir has publicly supported India–China film collaborations, highlighting shared cultural sentiments, particularly at Mumbai’s WAVES Summit 2025.

Connection with Turkey: In October 2017, Turkey’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism extended an invitation to Aamir to promote Secret Superstar. He visited Istanbul and Ankara, engaged with the culture minister, and highlighted the “similar emotional keys” shared by Turkish and Indian cultures. Additionally, he met with Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and First Lady Emine Erdogan, which generated some controversy in India.

Aamir filmed Laal Singh Chaddha in Turkey and had a meeting with Emine Erdogan at the presidential residence in Istanbul, where they discussed his Water Foundation, which focuses on drought relief efforts in India, and examined cultural similarities. The audiences in Turkey received him with great warmth; Turkish media and Reddit users acknowledged his popularity, particularly for his socially relevant films such as Dangal and 3 Idiots.

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