Rohtak varsity director steals the spotlight in Aamir Khan’s 'Sitare Zameen Par'

ROHTAK: Haryana has found fresh reason to celebrate the nationwide release of Aamir Khan’s latest film Sitare Zameen Par. The buzz centres on celebrated Haryanvi actor-writer-poet Jagbir Rathee, who delivers a scene-stealing performance as a hard-nosed hotel owner whose cruel treatment of a mentally challenged employee, Karim, ultimately backfires.“I’m nothing like that man,” Rathee, who recently retired from Rohtak's MDU as director Youth Welfare, laughed while talking to TOI. “But the role was too layered to refuse. His eventual repentance drives the film’s central message about dignity and inclusion.”Rathee’s rustic diction and authentic dialect have drawn comparisons to his breakout turn in Dangal where he played as a sports officer who refuses to release grant for wrestlers.

Critics say he once again elevates a supporting character into a moral pivot, wielding his signature Haryanvi cadence “like a blunt yet melodic instrument.”The actor praised Aamir Khan for creating an atmosphere “where every co-actor feels at home.” He described the superstar as “disarmingly humble—he’ll adjust lights himself if it helps you emote better.”Addressing chatter that 'Sitare Zameen Par' is merely a rehash of earlier social dramas, Rathee offered a pointed defence: “Stories that shape society’s conscience deserve retelling.

Just as Ramlila is staged each year to renew moral values, films that educate should return in fresh forms for new generations.”Rathee is far from resting on his laurels. He has already wrapped filming on several high-budget web-series and a slate of Haryanvi features. Next up is the Haryanvi comedy Baingan, in which he plays the lead.

“Expect a full-bodied laugh riot,” he hinted, “with a few surprises on the side.”