'Sarfarosh': Aamir Khan hints at re-release of 'important film'
The political drama Sarfarosh is among the most landmark films of Aamir Khan's career. In the 1999 film—helmed by ad-maker-turned-director John Mathew Mathan—Khan portrayed the character of ACP Ajay Singh Rathod alongside co-stars Sonali Bendre and Naseeruddin Shah. "I still haven't come to terms with the fact that it's been 25 years," Khan told Free Press Journal, describing a recent reunion with his co-stars and crew as "very nostalgic."
'Sarfarosh': A significant departure in mainstream cinema
Khan acknowledged Sarfarosh as a pivotal film that realistically portrayed police work—a deviation from typical commercial films. "It's an important film for our country, and it touched a lot of people." "It has been an important film for the cops as well. I recall many cops who met me after the film and even now, when cops come up to me...they compliment me on the realism in the film," Khan said.
Khan praised 'Sarfarosh's memorable music and cinematography
Further, Khan praised the film's memorable music by Jatin-Lalit, including an all-time classic by Jagjit Singh. He fondly recalled filming scenes for the song Hoshwalon Ko Khabar Kya, highlighting the cinematography by Vikas Sivaraman. Meanwhile, the actor expressed surprise upon learning that Bendre hadn't seen the entire film and expressed hope for a re-release. "If we put it back in theaters, people would come and see it all over again, and new audiences could discover it too."
Actor discussed the possibility of 'Sarfarosh' sequel
Khan confirmed that the idea of a sequel to Sarfarosh has been discussed. "Yes, so many people have asked about a sequel," he said, revealing, "I've even spoken to John a few times about doing one, and we can do one when he has a good script." "In fact, from now on, we'll seriously pursue the idea for a sequel. Remember how we left the ending open-ended, saying 'Veeran ka pata chal gaya hai!' (We found Veeran)."
Khan's only regret was this while filming 'Sarfarosh'
Despite its box office success, grossing over ₹33cr from an ₹8cr budget, Khan admitted to initial doubts about Sarfarosh due to Matthew Matthan's lack of experience in filmmaking. "There was this guy with an English name like John who wanted to make a Hindi film...He had not made a film before," Khan said highlighting the risk factor. Meanwhile, the actor expressed one regret: "My only regret about Sarfarosh was that I was doing two more films at the same time..."
Meanwhile, Khan is currently working on 'Sitaare Zameen Par'
Currently, he is immersed in his next project, Sitaare Zameen Par, which stars Genelia Deshmukh. The film is being shot in various landmark locations in Delhi and is directed by RS Prasanna. Khan earlier said, "The theme is the same but the difference is, unlike Taare Zameen Par, which left you with tears, Sitaare Zameen Par will leave in laughter. We are looking at the same topic but with a different perspective." The makers are targeting a Christmas 2024 release.