Kiran Rao reveals torturing then-husband Aamir Khan on the sets of 'Dhobi Ghat' while directing him

Kiran Rao, an acclaimed Bollywood director, has been making waves in the film industry with her unique storytelling and compelling direction. Known for her meticulous approach to filmmaking, she recently opened up about her experience directing her then-husband, Aamir Khan, in her debut film Dhobi Ghat (2010). Her candid revelations offer a glimpse into the challenges and growth she experienced during the film's production.

Kiran shared that working with Aamir Khan on Dhobi Ghat came with its own set of hurdles. She humorously admitted that she was tough on him, often rejecting his suggestions while being more considerate with other cast members. Reflecting on her behavior, she revealed to Filmfare,

Since Aamir was my husband, I felt comfortable snapping at him. It was a small-budget film, and I was under a lot of pressure to make everything work. While I tried to maintain patience with everyone else, Aamir bore the brunt of my stress.

- Kiran Rao

However, after the first day of filming, Aamir approached her with a heartfelt request to be treated like any other actor. His words made her realize her mistake, and she adjusted her approach, ensuring a more professional dynamic on set. Despite the initial friction, Kiran praised Aamir's commitment to his role, recalling how he stayed in the house where they were shooting to immerse himself in his character.

Dhobi Ghat was a critical success, earning acclaim for its nuanced storytelling and strong performances. Aamir's portrayal, along with those of Prateik Babbar, Monica Dogra, and Kriti Malhotra, was particularly praised, cementing the film's place as a memorable piece of Indian cinema.

Fast forward to the present, Kiran Rao has once again captured audiences with her latest film, Laapataa Ladies. The movie, a heartfelt exploration of women's lives in rural India, has received widespread appreciation and made it to the Oscars 2024 list as India's official entry.