Imran Khan says Aamir Khan faced death threats for speaking on female infanticide in Satyamev Jayate

Imran Khan has revealed that Aamir Khan faced serious death threats during the run of Satyamev Jayate, the television show that addressed social issues many preferred to avoid. The programme aired between 2012 and 2014 and discussed topics such as female infanticide, child sexual abuse, caste discrimination, dowry, rape and LGBTQ plus rights. While the show sparked nationwide conversations, it also triggered strong resistance.

Speaking on Unfiltered by Samdish, Imran said the backlash was intense and deeply personal. “I have known Aamir my whole life. I have a base level of faith and trust that the choices he makes and the things he chooses to attach his time and energy to are made in good faith and with honesty,” he said. Imran added that the episode on female infanticide angered several people. “His episode on female infanticide angered a lot of folks who issued death threats,” he stated.

According to Imran, the hostility went beyond isolated reactions and followed a familiar pattern. “Mamu jaan bechare ko desh se bhagane ki koshish kar rahe hain kab se,” he said, indicating repeated attempts to intimidate Aamir Khan. He explained that such threats are meant to silence voices rather than encourage dialogue.

Reflecting on the message behind these actions, Imran said fear is often used as a tool. “That is also part of the learning. It is part of an important message that we are all meant to learn: ‘Keep your head down. Zyada bolne ka nahi. Na teri ghar aa jayenge, aur ghar ko jalayenge,’” he said. The statement underlined how dissent is discouraged through intimidation instead of debate.

The discussion also touched upon discrimination beyond the film industry. Imran spoke about facing challenges while trying to rent a home in Mumbai. “For me, there’s an added layer of weirdness. Sometimes people don’t want film professionals in their building. I am a Muslim, even though I don’t identify as one (and an actor as well),” he said, pointing to prejudice in everyday life.

Imran Khan has largely stayed away from acting for nearly a decade and is now preparing a return with Happy Patel Khatarnak Jasoos, directed by Vir Das soon project.