SGIFF 2026: Aamir Khan Breaks Down on Stage, Reveals He Lost Relationships Working Like a ‘Madman’

In a poignant and unfiltered moment that left the audience deeply moved, Bollywood icon Aamir Khan broke down on stage at the 37th Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF) on Thursday, October 22, 2026. The candid confession came during an 'In Conversation With' session, where the acclaimed actor and filmmaker spoke about the immense personal cost of his dedication to cinema, admitting he had "lost relationships" by working like a "madman" for decades. Aamir Khan Embraces Natural Grey Hair at 61, Gets Trolled by Netizens Over New Look.

Aamir Khan's Emotional Revelation at Singapore Film Festival

The emotional outpouring occurred as Khan, who is 61 years old, reflected on the weakest moments of his illustrious career. He described how the introspective period of the COVID-19 lockdown forced him to confront the sacrifices he had made. "When I was sitting in COVID and I was thinking, I said, you know, about 30 years have passed of my life," Khan stated, as quoted by multiple reports.

He continued, "And it's okay to work like a madman, completely obsessed with what you're doing for one year, two years, five years. But if it goes on for 30 years, I mean, you've lost your relationships. Your kids have grown up, they're adults now. So I felt a deep sense of loss." The actor paused, visibly tearful, and apologised to the audience before composing himself amidst a wave of applause.

Khan revealed that this profound realisation, which occurred when he was 56, prompted him to re-evaluate his priorities. He expressed gratitude for this awakening, noting, "I'm so glad that this thought occurred to me when I was 56 and not when I was 86, when it would be really too late to do anything about it." Over the past four years, he has made a conscious effort to dedicate more time to his family and close friends.

The session, moderated by Singaporean comedian Rishi Budhrani, also touched upon earlier career challenges. Khan recalled a period after his debut hit Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak (1988) when he hastily signed nine films within six months. The subsequent box office failures left him emotionally devastated, often returning home in tears to his then-wife, Reena Dutta, and earning him the label of a "one-film wonder."

Recognition for Aamir Khan's Cinematic Journey and Future Prospects

Earlier in the evening, Aamir Khan was bestowed with the prestigious Screen Icon Award by renowned Hong Kong filmmaker Peter Chan Ho-sun, celebrating his significant creative contributions to cinema. The festival is also hosting a special presentation to mark the 25th anniversary of his Oscar-nominated film, Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India (2001), where he was joined by director Ashutosh Gowariker.

Aamir Khan Honoured With Screen Icon Award at Singapore International Film Festival 2026

Beyond his reflections, Khan offered exciting updates on his upcoming projects. He confirmed that director Rajkumar Hirani is actively developing a script for a sequel to their blockbuster comedy, 3 Idiots (2009). Khan expects to hear the final version of the script in the coming weeks. He also alluded to discussions regarding a potential sequel for the cult classic Andaz Apna Apna (1994). Imran Khan Gets FRRO Notice Over OCI Status After Mumbai Protest Against Gyanesh Kumar.

Khan's candid admissions underscore the often-unseen personal toll of a high-profile career, resonating deeply with many and offering a rare glimpse into the superstar's innermost thoughts.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 23, 2026 02:36 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).