My Name Is Khan is a dramatic film produced in India, released in 2010. Directed by Karan Johar, the film stars Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol in the leading roles. The film focuses on the life struggle of a Muslim man with Asperger's Syndrome in the United States, his confrontation with social prejudices, and his individual quest for justice. Written by Shibani Bathija, the production centers on the social tensions shaped in the context of increasing Islamophobia after the September 11, 2001 attacks. The film garnered significant interest both in India and internationally, drawing attention with its diverse cultural representations and emphasis on human rights.

Plot

The film revolves around the life story of Rizwan Khan, a man with Asperger's Syndrome. After his mother's death in India, Rizwan moves to the United States to live with his brother, Zakir. Here, he marries Mandira, a widowed Hindu woman he meets. However, due to discrimination against Muslims after the September 11 attacks, Mandira's son Sameer dies as a result of an attack he suffered at school. Mandira blames Rizwan for what happened and leaves him. Following this, Rizwan sets out to reach the US President to declare, “My name is Khan and I am not a terrorist.” The film progresses through the people and events Rizwan encounters during this journey.

^{My Name Is Khan (20th Century Studios Espana)}

Cast

Shah Rukh Khan – Rizwan Khan

Kajol – Mandira

Jimmy Shergill – Zakir Khan

Sonya Jehan – Haseena

Tanay Chheda – Young Rizwan

Arjan Aujla – Sameer

Parvin Dabas – Bobby Ahuja

Zarina Wahab – Rizwan’s mother

Production

My Name Is Khan was co-produced by Dharma Productions and Red Chillies Entertainment. Filming took place between 2008 and 2009 in various states across India and the United States. For the character of Rizwan, portrayed by Shah Rukh Khan, the actor underwent extensive preparation regarding Asperger's Syndrome. The film's premiere was held in Abu Dhabi and London in 2010, followed by its release in India and worldwide. Outside India, it received significant attention, particularly in the US, UK, Middle Eastern countries, and Southeast Asia.

Themes

The film addresses themes such as individual identity, social exclusion, Islamophobia, disability, love, the quest for justice, and human rights. The character of Rizwan stands out as a figure marginalized by society due to his religious and neurological differences. While his relationship with Mandira becomes a symbol of intercultural unity, Rizwan's desire to meet the president can be seen as a metaphor for individual resistance and human rights advocacy. The film particularly questions the perception of Muslim identity in Western societies after September 11.

Awards

2010 Filmfare Awards – Best Actor (Shah Rukh Khan)

2010 Filmfare Awards – Best Director (Karan Johar)

2011 Zee Cine Awards – Best Film

2010 Stardust Awards – Best Story

2010 Screen Awards – Best Film, Best Director, Best Actress (Kajol)

2010 Indian International Film Academy Awards (IIFA) – Best Film, Best Actor (Shah Rukh Khan), Best Screenplay