Indian Cinema's sensitive portrayals of people with special needs

Indian cinema has often sensitively yet openly explored the lives and challenges faced by children with special needs or mental challenges, offering poignant narratives that resonate with audiences. These films, through compelling storytelling and powerful performances, shed light on the unique experiences of these individuals and the importance of empathy, acceptance, and understanding within society. Here are five such notable Indian films that have tackled these themes:

This heartwarming film directed by Aamir Khan, stars Darsheel Safary as Ishaan, a young boy with dyslexia, and Aamir Khan as his empathetic art teacher, who helps him overcome his challenges and discover his true potential. The movie beautifully portrays the struggles of a child with learning disabilities and the importance of understanding and nurturing their unique talents. It is a heartwarming film that subtly portrays the mind of a dyslexic and the love and care they deserve. The film is loved globally, garnering attention and love from fans across the nation.

Anurag Basu's Barfi! is a unique love story featuring Ranbir Kapoor as a deaf-mute man and Priyanka Chopra as an autistic woman. The film also portrays Ilena D’cruz in a significant role. The film celebrates their unconventional bond, emphasizing that love transcends societal norms and disabilities, and showcases the beauty of human connection in the most unexpected circumstances. The portrayal of the characters was praised by many, showering the movie with immense love for its unique and unconventional plot.

Directed by Rakesh Roshan and starring Hrithik Roshan as Rohit, the film centers on a man with a developmental disability whose life takes an extraordinary turn with the arrival of an alien. Through Rohit's innocent perspective and his unique bond with the extraterrestrial being, the movie beautifully explores themes of acceptance, understanding, and the power of friendship that transcends earthly boundaries. The film uses a blend of science fiction and heartfelt emotion to convey its message of inclusivity. Its lauded even today for its incredible cast and portrayal of characters in the film.

R. Balki's Paa presents a unique story where Amitabh Bachchan plays Auro, a 12-year-old boy with progeria, a rare genetic condition that causes accelerated aging. Abhishek Bachchan plays his father, and Vidya Balan portrays his mother. The film explores their complex relationship and the challenges of dealing with a child who has a life-limiting illness with sensitivity and humor. The film touched the hearts of many with its sensitive and engaging storyline with humor as a cherry on top.

In Harry Baweja's Main Aisa Hi Hoon, Ajay Devgn plays the role of a man with a mental disability who passionately fights for the custody of his beloved daughter. The film poignantly addresses the societal prejudices and legal hurdles faced by individuals with cognitive impairments, while powerfully highlighting the depth of parental love and the inherent right of every parent to be with their child, regardless of their challenges. The narrative underscores the importance of empathy and seeing beyond societal labels.

This film directed by R. S. Prasanna and starring Aamir Khan and Genelia Deshmukh, is slated for release on June 20, 2025. Touted as a spiritual successor to "Taare Zameen Par," this sports comedy-drama centers on a disgraced basketball coach who is mandated to train a team of neurodivergent adults as community service. Initially prejudiced, the coach's perspective undergoes a transformation as he witnesses the unique abilities and life insights of his players, leading to a heartwarming journey of acceptance and personal growth for him and the team.