Aamir Khan has played by few rules in his Bollywood career, but when he dropped by at the Narmada Bachao Andolan protest in Jantar Mantar even his most ardent fans were surprised. Was it a case of publicity gimmick, of celebrity overtaking the cause, or of a star extending his recent streak of activism in reel life to real? In an extensive interview with PARIZAAD KHAN, Aamir admits he isn’t equipped to talk about big dams, but asks isn’t it common sense to seek proper rehabilitation. Excerpts:

• How did you first get involved with the Narmada issue?

I was in Delhi to release a book for Kiran Agarkar and the hotel it was being released in was right next to Jantar Mantar. So maybe if it wasn’t there, I would not have passed by and seen it. I had been hearing and reading about Medha’s fast and that’s how it came to my attention more acutely. Two days later, when I had some free time, I thought I should meet them and find out what was happening and what their issues were.

• Did you have any idea what what you were getting into?

I have to clarify here that I don’t have any past history with the Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA). I’m not fully aware of the details of their struggle, I’m not even sure if I support them. There are two points of view about large dams, and I don’t think I’m equipped to comment on that. I’m not the right person and I don’t have the exposure to the right information which can help me make up my mind on that. I’m not an environmentalist or a social activist, I have zero experience on these issues.

... contd.