Acclaimed actress and writer Kalki Koechlin recently spoke about the deep influence that cinema can have on public awareness, using the beloved film Taare Zameen Par as a key example. Known for her thoughtful approach to art and social issues, Kalki emphasized how films that tell emotionally resonant and socially relevant stories play a vital role in changing perceptions and encouraging empathy.
In her remarks, Kalki praised Taare Zameen Par for its sensitive portrayal of a child dealing with dyslexia, saying it brought much-needed attention to a condition that had long been misunderstood or ignored in mainstream Indian society. “A film like that doesn’t just entertain,” she said, “it educates. It opens up conversations in households, in schools, and even among policymakers.”
She went on to highlight how powerful storytelling has the ability to humanize issues that are often discussed only in academic or clinical settings. “When you watch a character struggle, when you see their inner world unfold on screen, it becomes real to you. That emotional connection can lead to genuine awareness and, hopefully, action.”
Kalki, whose own body of work includes films and theatre productions tackling issues such as gender, mental health, and disability, said she believes cinema should challenge audiences, not just comfort them. In her view, Taare Zameen Par set an important benchmark for how a mainstream film can be both widely accessible and deeply meaningful.
She also expressed hope that more filmmakers would take on stories that matter—stories that reflect the lives of those often overlooked by popular narratives. “We need more films that go beyond surface-level entertainment and help people see the world differently,” she said.
Kalki’s comments serve as a reminder of the enduring role art plays in shaping societal values and raising awareness. Her reflections on Taare Zameen Par underline how a single well-made film can leave a lasting mark—not only in cinema, but in how people think, feel, and respond to the world around them.
