Junaid Khan reveals parents recognised his dyslexia after 'Taare Zameen Par' script reading

The actor credits Aamir Khan and Reena Dutta’s supportive approach after his dyslexia diagnosis.

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Bollywood actor Junaid Khan, son of Aamir Khan, recently opened up about his childhood struggle with dyslexia.

The actor revealed that his parents, Amir Khan and Reena Dutta, discovered his condition after reading the script of Aamir's critically acclaimed film Taare Zameen Par, which tells the story of a dyslexic child.

In a candid interview, Junaid explained that, as a child, he faced difficulties with reading and writing, but it was not immediately recognised as dyslexia.

"Neither of my parents were particular about my studies," he said, reflecting on his upbringing. His parents, instead of pressuring him to excel academically, allowed him the space to navigate his own path.

However, the breakthrough came when his parents were reading the script of Taare Zameen Par, a film Amir directed and starred in. The film focuses on the struggles of Ishaan Awasthi, a dyslexic child, and his art teacher, Raj Shankar Nikumbh, who helps him with his disorder.

Junaid recalled that during discussions of the script, Amir and Reena had a sudden realisation: "When Papa and Maa heard the script, they were like, 'Ek second! We’ve seen this in our lives.'" This moment led them to take Junaid to a specialist, where he was diagnosed with dyslexia.

Junaid, who was about six or seven at the time, remembers how his parents’ reaction was a mix of concern and relief.

They recognised the challenges he was facing and, from then on, made adjustments to ensure he received the support he needed.

“They were mindful of that, especially in schooling,” Junaid said, adding that his parents' focus shifted from academic results to emotional support and encouragement.

Junaid credits his parents for creating an environment where he was encouraged to do his best without the pressure of traditional academic expectations. "They were always like, 'Make sure you do your best,’” he recalled.

Junaid Khan's journey has since taken him into the film industry. He made his acting debut in 2024 with the Netflix series Maharaj and is now preparing for his first theatrical release, Loveyapa.

The film, directed by Advait Chandan, co-stars Khushi Kapoor and is set to hit theatres on February 7, 2025.