Did Not Want Son Junaid To Do Film Maharaj: Aamir on KBC

October 10, 2024: Aamir Khan will grace this week’s special episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 16. The Friday episode will co-incide with host Amitabh Bachchan’s 82nd birthday. In the episode promos and clips, he is seen telling Amitabh Bachchan, that he advised his son Junaid Khan to travel across India by bus before making his acting debut in the film Maharaj.

The suggestion was intended to ensure that Junaid could better understand the diverse cultures of India, thereby staying connected to the pulse of the audience—a lesson that many actors often overlook. The special episode will air on Friday, October 11.

During the episode, which celebrated Amitabh Bachchan’s 82nd birthday, Aamir spoke candidly about Junaid’s journey into acting. Although Junaid faced multiple screen test rejections, he was eventually chosen for Maharaj, a project by Yash Raj Films. Aamir admitted that he initially advised Junaid not to take up the role. “I thought he shouldn’t take it despite getting selected after many rejections,” Aamir revealed.

However, Junaid’s determination to pursue the opportunity led him to take on the role. He shared how Aamir emphasized the importance of understanding the culture and language of India, telling him, “You can learn acting anywhere, but if you want to succeed in Indian cinema, you need to connect with the people of India. Otherwise, even a great actor won’t fit in here.”

Aamir’s advice also included a unique approach to gaining real-world experience: “Travel from Kashmir to Kanyakumari by bus, live among the locals, and learn from them. It’s a journey that can teach you lessons no school or college can.”

During the show, Amitabh Bachchan reminisced about giving similar advice to his son Abhishek Bachchan when he was starting his career. He recommended that Abhishek spend a few months among everyday people to better connect with the Indian audience—a perspective that Aamir echoed for Junaid.

Junaid made his acting debut with Maharaj and is set to appear in upcoming projects, including a romantic drama alongside Khushi Kapoor and another film with Sai Pallavi. Meanwhile, Abhishek’s journey began with JP Dutta’s Refugee back in 2000.