Aamir Khan’s latest release 'Sitaare Zameen Par' hit theatres on Friday, but not without a few pre-release tweaks mandated by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The censor board suggested five changes before granting the film a U/A rating—making it suitable for viewers of all age groups, though parents are advised to guide children under 13.

Among the most notable modifications? A quote by Prime Minister Narendra Modi referencing the year 2047 had to be inserted into the film’s opening disclaimer. All the recommendations were implemented in time for the film’s release. 

What the CBFC Asked to Be Changed

Include PM Modi’s quote about the year 2047 in the opening disclaimer.

Delete a visual featuring the word “kamal” (lotus), and remove the same from the subtitles.

Replace the term “business woman” with the more gender-neutral “business person”.

Swap a 30-second disclaimer at the start of the film with a 26-second voice-over.

Change the mention of “Michael Jackson” in the subtitles to “Lovebirds”.

According to Hindustan Times, the revised version of the film was vetted by a reviewing committee headed by theatre director Waman Kendre. Such a committee is typically convened if the CBFC chairperson feels a film needs re-evaluation after its initial screening by a smaller examining panel.

However, the rationale behind the board’s requested edits remains unclear. 

About Sitaare Zameen Par

Directed by RS Prasanna, 'Sitaare Zameen Par' is the official Hindi adaptation of the 2018 Spanish film 'Champions'. Billed as a spiritual successor to Aamir Khan’s critically acclaimed 'Taare Zameen Par' (2007), the new film explores the journey of a hot-headed basketball assistant coach. After being sentenced to community service, he finds himself mentoring a team of specially abled adults—leading to a heartwarming transformation. The film also stars Genelia Deshmukh. The movie features ten fresh faces, including Aroush Datta, Gopi Krishna Varma, Samvit Desai, Vedant Sharma, Ayush Bhansali, Ashish Pendse, Rishi Shahani, Rishabh Jain, Naman Mishra, and Simran Mangeshkar.