Aamir Khan celebrates 25 years of Lagaan as the iconic Oscar-nominated film heads to the London Indian Film Festival 2026. The Bollywood superstar will attend a special BFI IMAX screening and participate in an exclusive conversation session, reflecting on the film’s legacy, global impact, and enduring audience connection.
Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan has reflected on the remarkable journey of his iconic film Lagaan as it approaches the 25th anniversary of its release. The Academy Award-nominated colonial epic is set to receive a special screening at the prestigious London Indian Film Festival (LIFF) 2026, marking a major milestone in the history of Indian cinema.
The celebrated film will be screened at the BFI IMAX in London on July 12, 2026, offering audiences a chance to revisit one of India’s most influential cinematic achievements on the UK’s largest IMAX screen. The screening forms part of the upcoming edition of the London Indian Film Festival, which promises an exciting lineup of film premieres, special events, and conversations with leading figures from the entertainment industry.
Speaking about the film’s silver jubilee year, Aamir Khan expressed gratitude for the overwhelming love and appreciation that Lagaan has continued to receive from audiences around the world.
“As Lagaan completes 25 years, it’s hard to put into words what this journey has meant. We made the film with a lot of belief, passion and honesty, never imagining the kind of love it would receive and continue to receive all these years later,” Khan said.
The actor added that he was delighted that the milestone would be celebrated through a special screening at the BFI. According to him, seeing the film resonate with audiences across different generations and geographical boundaries remains one of its greatest achievements.
Released in 2001, Lagaan became a landmark film in Indian cinema. Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker and produced by Aamir Khan, the movie blended sports drama, history, and social commentary. Set during British colonial rule in India, the film tells the story of villagers who challenge British officers to a game of cricket in an effort to escape oppressive taxation.
The film earned international acclaim and was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, becoming one of the few Indian productions to receive such recognition. Over the years, Lagaan has been praised for its storytelling, performances, music, and cultural significance.
As part of the festival’s closing gala celebrations, Aamir Khan will participate in a special event titled “Aamir Khan In Conversation” at BFI Southbank on July 16. During the session, the actor is expected to discuss the making of Lagaan, his experiences in the film industry, and his evolution from a child actor to one of the most successful and influential stars in global cinema.
Festival organizers have described the event as a rare opportunity for fans and cinema enthusiasts to gain insights into Khan’s illustrious career and the creative process behind one of India’s most beloved films.
The 2026 edition of the London Indian Film Festival will also feature a reunion of the legendary British-Asian comedy team behind Goodness Gracious Me, Europe’s first Indian AI and Film Showcase, and numerous UK premieres of independent feature films and short films.
The festival will open with 52 Blue, directed by award-winning filmmaker Ali El Arabi. The inspirational coming-of-age drama stars Adil Hussain and Neha Dhupia, both of whom are expected to attend festival screenings alongside the director.
Commenting on this year’s programme, LIFF CEO and Programming Director Cary Rajinder Sawhney said the festival was proud to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Lagaan with Aamir Khan present to discuss the film’s creation and lasting impact.
Sawhney also highlighted the festival’s commitment to showcasing diverse voices in Indian cinema, including independent filmmakers from various states and emerging talent exploring artificial intelligence in filmmaking.
In addition to London, the festival is expanding its reach to Birmingham, Manchester, Sheffield, and Bradford, reflecting the growing popularity of Indian cinema among audiences across the United Kingdom.
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As Lagaan completes a quarter-century of cinematic excellence, its inclusion in the London Indian Film Festival serves as a reminder of the film’s enduring influence. For Aamir Khan and millions of fans worldwide, the anniversary celebration is not just about revisiting a classic film but honoring a story that continues to inspire audiences through its message of courage, unity, and determination.
