Sitaare Zameen Par: Sudha Murty Shares Her First Review

Sitaare Zameen Par will touch hearts.” With these heartfelt words, author and philanthropist Sudha Murty offered the very first review of the much-anticipated film Sitaare Zameen Par. Although the film has yet to hit theatres, Murty’s early response is already stirring conversations across India—especially among families, educators, and mental health advocates.

This upcoming film, which is reportedly inspired by the acclaimed 2018 Spanish movie Champions, aims to spotlight children with special needs and challenge stereotypes through the power of storytelling. While we await its official release, the Sudha Murty review of Sitaare Zameen Par is helping spark curiosity and emotional connection. Many are already asking: Could this be another landmark moment for Indian films on autism and neurodiversity?

In this article, we explore the significance of Sudha Murty’s reaction, the themes the film may highlight, and how cinema continues to shape public understanding of autism in India—responsibly, respectfully, and hopefully

Looking for support beyond the screen? Explore home therapy resources at Wellness Hub.

Sitaare Zameen Par: A Pre‑Release Look

Sitaare Zameen Par hasn’t hit cinemas yet—it premieres on June 20, 2025—but audiences and critics have already started praising it. The film remakes the Spanish hit Champions (2018) and features Aamir Khan as a basketball coach who mentors a team of teenagers with developmental challenges. The story aims to inspire viewers and raise awareness about inclusion and empathy.

Renowned author and philanthropist Sudha Murty shared her thoughts after watching a special screening on June 9. She called the film an “eye-opener” and said:

In her words, “What’s normal is in itself a big philosophical question… They are very sensitive and pure-hearted. …This movie can bring a lot of changes, actually, and it can also make people sensitive to the issue of intellectual disability …This movie can bring a lot of changes, actually, and it can also make people sensitive to the issue of intellectual disability, and one should not look down upon them.”

Her thoughtful review emphasizes the film’s message of sensitivity and acceptance toward individuals who are often misunderstood due to developmental differences.

Like Taare Zameen Par, this film blends emotional storytelling with social impact. It doesn’t just entertain—it challenges how we view differences and encourages compassion from every viewer.

Breaking the Stigma Around Autism in India

Movies have the power to change how we think. In India, films like Taare Zameen Par (2007) started an important conversation about learning differences. Now, Sitaare Zameen Par continues that legacy by shedding light on neurodiversity—including conditions like autism—and encouraging empathy and inclusion and encouraging empathy and understanding. These films help families feel seen and heard.

Stigma around autism in India still runs deep. Many families delay seeking a diagnosis because of fear or shame. In some cases, parents notice early signs—like delayed speech or poor eye contact—but avoid speaking up due to social pressure. This delay often means missing the early intervention window, which is critical for better outcomes.

Social isolation is another painful reality. Some children get excluded from birthday parties, school events, or neighborhood playgroups. Parents often feel judged or blamed for their child’s behavior. This emotional toll affects not just the child, but the entire family.

By bringing autism into the spotlight, movies create awareness and normalize neurodiversity. They start conversations that lead to change.

Raising autism awareness through Indian cinema can drive more families to seek help early. More importantly, it offers hope. Families realize they’re not alone—and that support exists.

If you’re a parent looking for autism support for Indian children, know that early help can make a big difference. Learn more about how platforms like Wellness Hub support children and families with accessible online therapy options.

From Reel to Real: What Parents Can Do

Watching a film like Sitaare Zameen Par can spark strong emotions—but it can also inspire awareness. If you’re a parent, you may start noticing things in your own child that you hadn’t thought twice about before.

Look for signs such as:

• Delayed speech or limited eye contact
• Repetitive behaviors or intense focus on specific objects
• Difficulty in adapting to changes in routine
• Limited interest in social interaction or pretend play

These early signs of autism in children often go unnoticed or get dismissed as “just a phase.” But early identification makes a real difference. Support at the right time helps children build stronger communication, social, and emotional skills.

You don’t need to wait or worry alone. Practical solutions exist—from speech and occupational therapy to behavior-based strategies that support neurodiverse development. Many families have found relief and progress by connecting with professionals who understand both the signs and the science.

Not sure if your child needs help? Book a free online autism consultation with our experts. We’ll guide you gently and professionally—every step of the way.

How Wellness Hub Supports Children with Autism

Wellness Hub offers a full range of support services designed to help children with autism grow, communicate, and thrive in daily life. Our approach combines professional therapies, interactive tools, and parent-friendly resources that make early intervention both effective and accessible.

1. Online Speech Therapy

Speech delays can be frustrating for both the child and the parent. Our online speech therapy sessions, led by certified therapists, focus on improving communication skills, language development, and speech clarity—all from the comfort of your home. We tailor each session to meet the child’s pace and unique learning needs.

2. Occupational Therapy for Daily Life Skills

Children with autism often struggle with tasks like buttoning a shirt or using cutlery. Our occupational therapy helps them gain independence by building fine motor skills, coordination, and sensory regulation. Sessions are activity-based and practical, designed to improve everyday functioning.

3. Social Skills Training for Real-World Interaction

Social communication can be difficult for many autistic children. Our structured training builds confidence, teaches eye contact, turn-taking, and helps children handle group situations. We use real-life scenarios and roleplay to make learning fun and engaging.

4. BASICS App – Your On-the-Go Autism Toolkit

Parents can now access therapy support anytime with our BASICS app, available for both Android and iOS. This app includes videos, activities, and daily routines that support your child’s development at home.

5. Real Tools That Reinforce Progress

We complement our therapy programs with practical tools that make learning easier:

• Autism Flashcards – Build vocabulary and promote recognition through visual learning.
• Conversation Cards – Help children practice sentence-building and social interaction.
• Behavioral Activities – Encourage focus, emotional regulation, and task completion through fun and engaging tasks.

At Wellness Hub, every tool and therapy works toward one goal: helping your child build a brighter, more confident future.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What did Sudha Murty say about Sitaare Zameen Par?

Sudha Murty called Sitaare Zameen Par a film that “will touch hearts,” appreciating its sensitive portrayal of teenagers with developmental differences. Her review has created early interest around the film’s theme of inclusion and empathy.

2. Is Sitaare Zameen Par based on a true story?

No, Sitaare Zameen Par is not based on a true story. It is the official Hindi remake of the 2018 Spanish film Champions, which follows a coach mentoring individuals with disabilities.

3. What is Sitaare Zameen Par about?

Sitaare Zameen Par follows the story of a basketball coach, played by Aamir Khan, who is legally assigned to train a team of teenagers with intellectual disabilities. The film explores their journey toward self-confidence, acceptance, and inclusion.

4. How does the movie raise awareness about autism?

Though unreleased, the movie is expected to promote acceptance and understanding of neurodivergent individuals, which may include those on the autism spectrum.. By showing their unique strengths and challenges, films like this help reduce stigma around autism in India.

5. Who plays the lead role in Sitaare Zameen Par?

Aamir Khan stars in the lead role, with supporting performances by Genelia Deshmukh and Gopi Krishnan Varma, the first Indian actor with Down Syndrome in a lead role.

6. Can movies help reduce the stigma around autism in India?

Yes, socially impactful films like Sitaare Zameen Par and Taare Zameen Par can raise public awareness and challenge stereotypes. They often help families better understand autism and seek timely support.

7. What are early signs of autism in Indian children?

Early signs may include delayed speech, lack of eye contact, repetitive behaviors, and difficulty with social interaction. Recognizing these signs early allows for effective intervention.

8. Where can parents get support if their child shows signs of autism?

Parents can consult developmental pediatricians, psychologists, or access online therapy through platforms like Wellness Hub, which offers autism consultations, speech therapy, and early intervention tools.

9. Is online speech therapy effective for autism support?

Yes, online speech therapy can be highly effective, especially when guided by certified therapists. It helps children with autism improve communication, articulation, and social skills.

10. What is the BASICS app by Wellness Hub?

The BASICS app is an expert-designed learning tool for children with autism, speech delay, and ADHD. It includes games, videos, and activities that promote speech development, vocabulary, and social communication.