Is the Script of Taare Zameen Par Original or Copied? An Analysis

Directors often face the question of originality when their films gain popularity and critical acclaim. , directed by Aamir Khan and released in 2007, has been a subject of such discussions. The film, which tells the story of a dyslexic child and his struggles in a traditional education system, is often scrutinized for potential similarities with other movies. This article aims to provide a thorough analysis to clarify whether the script of Taare Zameen Par is an original work or a copy of another film.

Originality of the Script

The script of Taare Zameen Par is an original work. This originality lies in its unique narrative and cultural context. The film draws on universal themes related to education, creativity, and the challenges faced by children with learning disabilities. However, it stands out due to its distinctive portrayal of the Indian educational system and the emotional journey of the protagonist.

Origins and Influences

Taare Zameen Par is loosely based on Abhi Bhattacharya’s 1955 play Jagriti, which also follows a narrative of a teacher who transforms a child. However, this adaptation adds a modern twist with a focus on child learning disorders to make the story fresh and updated. The core of the story remains the same—a child is admitted to a boarding school, where a new teacher helps him overcome his struggles.

The screenplay includes incidents and characters that have been altered and rewritten to create the story of Taare Zameen Par. This restructuring emphasizes the film's uniqueness and prevents it from being considered a direct copy of its predecessors.

Unresolved Allegations

Various allegations have emerged regarding the originality of the script. Some viewers have suggested that Taare Zameen Par is copied from other works. For instance, some platforms on the internet claim that the film copies scenes from a Bengali telefilm titled Noi Chhoi, which itself is based on Shakuntala Devi's book. However, without a thorough review of these claims, it is challenging to confirm their validity.

Other allegations state that the script was influenced by books such as In the Wonderland of Numbers by Shakuntala Devi and Thank You, Mr. Falker. While these books may share similar themes, the film's writers, Amole Gupte, have not acknowledged such influences in their work.

Conclusion

Based on the available information, the script of Taare Zameen Par appears to be an original work. While it draws inspiration from other narratives, the unique storytelling and cultural context make it stand out as a distinct piece of filmmaking. The adaptation from Jagriti to Taare Zameen Par shows how originality can be achieved through creative reimagining rather than direct copying.

Further research and academic analyses could provide more insight into the influences behind the script. Until then, Taare Zameen Par remains a testament to Aamir Khan and Amole Gupte's dedication to telling a compelling and original story.