Two Phalkes in the Making? Aamir’s Biopic Sparks Talk as Rajamouli and Jr NTR’s Version Rumored to Be Underway
Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Hirani have confirmed their return with a new project — a Dadasaheb Phalke biopic, centred on the life of the man known as the Father of Indian Cinema. This will be their third collaboration after the widely celebrated 3 Idiots and PK.
Phalke's Vision and Legacy: A Glimpse
It will show the early struggles of Phalke, his vision, and that watershed moment when he presented India’s first full-length feature Raja Harishchandra in 1913. The story is then placed against the backdrop of the freedom movement in India and the beginning of a cultural revolution through film.
Production Timeline and Aamir Khan’s Preparation
Aamir Khan will start his preparations after the release of Sitaare Zameen Par on June 20. The film, currently untitled, will begin production in October 2025.
A Script Years in the Making
Rajkumar Hirani, known for his emotionally nuanced narratives, has co-developed the script alongside Abhijat Joshi, Hindukush Bharadwaj, and Avishkar Bharadwaj for the last four years. In so doing, they hope to share an honest and deep portrayal of how Phalke’s personal journey laid the foundation of what one day became one of the largest film industries in the world.
Assembling the Cutting-Edge Visuals to Recreate a Historic Era
To conjure up the vistas of the first decade of a century with apt visual precision, VFX studios from LA are roped into this project. They even carried the endeavor forward by building fully AI-powered visuals that adhere to depicting the original views and vibes of the era.
Family Legacy Adds Authentic Touch
Phalke's grandson, Chandrashekhar Srikrishna Pusalkar, also shares, thus adding a deep personal touch to the film. Pusalkar has furnished rare accounts and anecdotes that allow a more intimate look at the passion and commitment of the filmmaker.
Another Biopic in the Works
The announcement comes just days after reports of another Dadasaheb Phalke biopic in the works. SS Rajamouli and Jr NTR are also reportedly planning a film on the same subject. However, no official word has confirmed that project yet.
Phalke's Permanent Contribution to Indian Cinema
Phalke and his works have forever altered or changed how India truly tells stories. Over the span of 30 years, he directed more than 90 feature films and 27 short films. Some names still very much off the charts include Mohini Bhasmasur, Lanka Dahan, and Shri Krishna Janma.
A National Honor for a Cultural Pioneer
The Government of India honoured his legacy by instituting the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1969 — now the country’s highest recognition in cinema.
A Journey Back to the Birth of Indian Film
As the Indian film industry continues to evolve, this biopic seeks to revisit the roots of its creation. It aims to celebrate one man’s dream that turned into a nationwide cultural movement.
A Cinematic Tribute in the Making
While Aamir Khan readies for his next film and Rajkumar Hirani sharpens the lens of history, this tribute to Indian cinema promises a deeply immersive cinematic experience.