Bollywood has time and again disappointed us with the way people with disabilities have been portrayed. Most of the time, instead of focusing on the kind of person they are or their own individuality, they have been shown as mentally deficient or simply as comic relief. However, at certain points, directors and writers did nothing less than an exceptional job of touching on this topic with immense respect and sensitivity.
Movies That Portrayed Disability With Immense Sensitivity
Here are the seven movies that have portrayed disability with honor and grace, instead of just making it a laughing stock.
Barfi (2012)
Starring Ranbir Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra, and Ileana D’Cruz, Barfi is one of the most heartwarming romantic comedies. It revolves around the innocent love story of Barfi, a deaf-mute young man, and Jhilmil, an autistic girl. The main idea behind the movie is that love and happiness go way beyond money or physical abilities. If you are looking for a roller coaster ride of emotions, from uncontrollable laughter to ugly crying, Barfi is the right pick for you.
Paa (2009)
Starring Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, and Vidya Balan in the lead roles, Paa is an emotional comedy revolving around Auro, a 12-year-old boy with Progeria. Progeria is a genetic disorder that makes Auro physically age way faster than normal. What makes this movie stand out is the fact that Amitabh Bachchan is playing the role of Abhishek’s son, when it’s the other way around in real life.
Also Read: Common Developmental Disabilities In Children And How To Spot Them
Margarita With A Straw (2014)
Margarita With A Straw is a one-of-a-kind movie, starring Kalki Koechlin as Laila Kapoor, a teenager suffering from Cerebral Palsy. Despite her struggles, Laila wins a scholarship and finds herself in New York, exploring themes like sexuality, inclusion, self-love, and self-acceptance.
Guzaarish (2010)
Guzaarish is a romantic drama starring Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in the lead roles. The story follows Ethan, a paralyzed magician-turned-radio jockey who appeals to the court for mercy killing. But what will happen when he finds himself falling in love?
Black (2005)
Starring Rani Mukherji and Amitabh Bachchan, Black is a drama film that revolves around Michelle, a deaf and blind woman. The film mainly focuses on Michelle and the bond that forms between her and her old alcoholic teacher, who himself gets diagnosed with Alzheimer's later on.
Also Read: Myths You Need To Stop Believing About Children With Special Needs
Taare Zameen Par (2007)
Taare Zameen Par is hands-down one of the most well-made movies following a young child’s struggles and dilemmas, all while being completely misunderstood. Ishaan Awasthi is an artistically gifted nine-year-old, whose reading disorder has been undiagnosed for the longest time. Constant pressure from family and teachers only made him more closed off but things started to change once the new art teacher joined the school.
My Name Is Khan (2010)
My Name is Khan is a 2010 drama film, starring Shahrukh Khan and Kajol in the lead roles. Shahrukh Khan impeccably plays the role of Rizwan Khan, an autistic Muslim, who sets out on a venture to meet the US President after his wife faces discrimination and a huge loss after the 9/11 attacks.
These movies couldn’t have done a better job when it comes to igniting feelings of empathy, compassion, and deference. They made a loud and clear statement that respecting someone is not a choice that can be made on whether they are abled or disabled to perform any certain action. Now lay back and watch these movies as they take you through an avalanche of feelings and emotions.