Why Aamir Khan Was 'Afraid Of Losing Stardom' With Dangal

New Delhi: Aamir Khan's last release Dangal was a gift to Indian cinema that broke major box office records not only here (Rs 385 crore) but in China and Hong Kong too. However, Aamir, 52, who played the role of Haryanvi wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat in the film, revealed that he was 'scared of losing his stardom' with Dangal. "I do get scared (of losing stardom). When I heard the story of Dangal, I thought I have to do this film. But then I thought that I have just done Dhoom 3 and PK, and have six-packs and star-image. If I will do this film (Dangal), then I will become old and fat. What my fans will think? I hope I don't lose my fan-following," Aamir told news agency IANS.

Dangalwas based on the story of Mr Phogat, who despite all odds, trains his daughters Geeta and Babita Phogat, to become world-class wrestlers. Debutants Fatima Sana Shaikh and Sanya Malhotra played Geeta and Babita respectively in the film. Aamir underwent massive physical transformation for playing the younger and older versions of Mahavir Singh Phogat. He put on weight up to 95 kilos and later reduced to around 70 kilos.

"Mahavir is a 55-year-old in the film. I am 52. So, there is less difference between us. We are too close. But fans don't know that as they see me as 30-year-old. So, I told the director that I liked the film and I will do it after 10 years when I will be old. They agreed to that too. But the story of the film couldn't leave my mind. So, I decided that I should do it and not get afraid of anything," he said.

Dangal won several Filmfare Awards this year including the Best Actor and Best Director trophy. The film was directed by Nitesh Tiwary.

Aamir is currently promoting Secret Superstar, directed by first-time director Advait Chandan. The film stars Aamir's Dangal co-star Zaira Wasim, who played the younger version of Geeta Phogat. Of working with Aamir, Zaira told IANS, "I am glad that I got to work with him twice. I never wondered of working with him. I have been very lucky." They were speaking at a promotional event related to Secret Superstar, which releases on October 19. Aamir has special role in the film.

Aamir Khan's next film is Thugs Of Hindostan, co-starring Amitabh Bachchan, Katrina Kaif and Fatima Sana Shaikh.

(With IANS inputs)