MNIK : Asperger Syndrome

SRK in My Name is Khan plays a character who has Asperger Syndrome. 'Asperger syndrome is an autism spectrum disorder, and people with it therefore show significant difficulties in social interaction, along with restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests.' But it is love that drives him even though he finds himself unable to express his emotions. Since the movie is about romantic love more than disability, we do not have much to rattle on...
First dyslexia (Taare Zameen Par) and now Asperger Syndrome! We wonder what's next!

From TZP to MNIK

It's been 15 years that we have been striving to sensitize people about the needs of special children. I'm left wondering about the impact of cinema when I see a 'commercial' film not only making crores but also educating an entire nation about dyslexia. Yes, I'm talking about 'Taare Zameen Par'. The serial 'Aap ki Antara' made waves but could not do what Aamir Khan did with his directorial debut. It's about selling what sells! Emotions and Humour! Melodrama and Laughter!

It's difficult to imagine the movie making an impact without the song 'Maa' and the sentimental scenes which touch the very core of your heart. Even '3 Idiots' would fall flat on its face without the comic scenes and the play upon emotions. So what if they play with our emotions to make money! They also carry a message which if driven home can change the way people think. People who had never even heard of dyslexia know about it after watching TZP. They understand that every individual is different and that difference should not invite value-judgements. How I wish people take home the message that such movies have to offer! Another movie in the offing is 'My Name is Khan'. We have heard that SRK plays the role of a mildly autistic person. Let us see what the movie has to offer us in the name of a 'message'!