Genelia Deshmukh, the beloved actress who stole hearts with Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na and Marathi sensation Ved, is back on the big screen after a significant hiatus, and she admits she wasn’t sure audiences would still remember her. In a candid interview, Genelia revealed her surprise at being offered the emotionally layered role of Sunita opposite Aamir Khan in Sitaare Zameen Par. “I thought people would forget me,” she confessed, sharing how Aamir personally encouraged her to audition.
Prior to landing the part, she auditioned three times, an experience she says highlights lingering biases, especially against married actresses. “Maybe you think I’m married, so I don’t need this character,” she noted, urging filmmakers to cast age-appropriate actors rather than younger stand-ins.
When Genelia’s name was announced, the response was immediate and affectionate. The announcement sparked enthusiasm, once again spotlighting the chemistry she and Aamir shared in their debut film Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na. Aamir himself praised her return, saying her on-screen presence brings “warmth and authenticity” and insisted, “the camera loves her.”
In Sitaare Zameen Par, directed by R.S. Prasanna, she plays a “deeply human” and emotionally grounded wife, a role that echoes her growth both on-screen and off. Despite her limited screen time, Genelia believes her character acts as a crucial narrative catalyst, bringing emotional clarity and maturity to the storyline.
This much-anticipated film, a spiritual sequel to Taare Zameen Par, is already resonating with audiences and critics alike. Co-starring Aamir Khan, the sports-comedy drama explores themes of inclusion, empathy, and social transformation through the lens of specially-abled characters. It has already surpassed ₹160 crore at the box office, drawing praise for its emotional depth and message.
Genelia’s return marks not just a personal triumph but also a reminder of the industry’s evolving dynamics. She emphasizes that casting consciously, honoring age, maturity, and lived experience, benefits both actors and audiences.
Whether she’s rediscovered that spark among long-time fans or captured the attention of a new generation, Genelia Deshmukh’s comeback shines brightly, a testament to her talent, persistence, and timeless appeal.
