Aamir Khan reacts to criticism of casting Mona Singh as his mother in Laal Singh Chaddha: Just because I am 57?

Aamir Khan also said the criticism would have disturbed Mona Singh.

Aamir Khan, Mona Singh in stills from Laal Singh Chaddha

When the trailer for Laal Singh Chaddha was released a few weeks ago, many people were surprised to see Mona Singh playing Aamir Khan's onscreen mother. Several people called it an ageist move on her part, as she is younger than the superstar and has been roped in to play his mother in the film. During a group media interaction, Khan defended Singh and asked how it is logical when it comes to creativity.

The Dangal star stated, "I want to ask you a question - As an actor and a creative person if I’m looking 103, which I’m supposed to, why is my age inappropriate to play the role? just because I am 57. What is the logic?"

Khan also said that it is the beauty of an actor to look any age on the screen despite their real age, and this is Singh's magic. He went on to say that when people see her in the film, at one moment they will feel that she is looking very young, and at another moment they will feel she is looking old; that’s her brilliance.

The actor also stated that people are stealing her talent and doubting her ability to play a role like this. He also said that had he been Singh, he would have been disturbed.

Khan also addressed a statement made by Neena Gupta about how young actors are also playing older roles. He said, "This is a larger discussion. I personally feel that if I am directing a film, I’m talking as a creative person. If I feel this person is correct for this role, and as far as the age is concerned, I am going to deal with how old that person looks, male or female, no matter, then that’s my choice. I am the director. If you want to cast someone else, then make your own film.

Laal Singh Chaddha reunites Khan and Singh after 3 Idiots.

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