As the beloved 1994 comedy Andaz Apna Apna returns to cinemas this Friday, fans were surprised to find actor Aamir Khan missing from a special pre-release screening held earlier this week in Mumbai. The film, which over the years has transformed from a box office flop into a revered cult classic, was showcased in an intimate gathering for the original cast and crew. Despite being one of the film’s leading stars, Aamir chose not to attend the event.
Speaking later to film journalist Subhash K Jha, the actor shared the emotional reason behind his absence. Aamir revealed that he was deeply affected by the horrific terror attack that had taken place just days earlier in Pahalgam, Kashmir. The brutal assault claimed the lives of 26 innocent tourists, sending shockwaves across the nation.
“I was reading detailed reports about the tragedy in Pahalgam, and it really disturbed me,” Aamir said. “The senseless violence and the loss of so many innocent lives left me heartbroken. In that state of mind, I couldn’t bring myself to attend a celebratory gathering. It didn’t feel right.” He added that he hopes to watch the film later when he is in a better frame of mind.
The massacre in Pahalgam on April 22 targeted a group of unsuspecting tourists in one of Kashmir’s most scenic spots. The deadly attack was carried out by armed militants and has since been condemned across the board—from political leaders to members of the entertainment industry. As a mark of solidarity and respect, several planned events, premieres, and functions were either cancelled or postponed.
Directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, Andaz Apna Apna features a star-studded lineup including Salman Khan, Raveena Tandon, and Karisma Kapoor, in addition to Aamir. Though the film failed to impress audiences during its original release, it gradually won hearts through television re-runs and home video, cementing its place as one of Hindi cinema’s most cherished comedies.
Looking back, Aamir recalled how both he and director Santoshi were passionate about the project, despite its initial reception. “Raj and I always believed in the film. It didn’t find its audience immediately, which was painful. But over time, it became a phenomenon. Families began to embrace it, and its humor became timeless. Eventually, it turned into one of my most loved works—not in box office terms, but in cultural impact,” he reflected.
The decision to bring Andaz Apna Apna back to the big screen comes as a celebration of its timeless charm and enduring popularity. It’s aimed at introducing the laughter-filled journey to younger audiences who may have only seen it on television or online.
While many fans were eager to see Aamir join the special screening, his choice to sit it out has been widely respected. In light of the national grief following the Pahalgam attack, his absence stands as a quiet but powerful gesture of empathy and solidarity with the victims and their families.
In moments of widespread sorrow, such decisions remind us that while cinema is a source of joy, it must also remain sensitive to the world around it.
