
Aarakshan(2011)
Aarakshan is a 2011 Hindi socio-political drama film directed by Prakash Jha. It stars Amitabh Bachchan, Saif Ali Khan, Manoj Bajpayee, and Deepika Padukone. The story is set in a small Indian town where a college principal fights for equal education. He faces opposition from a businessman who wants to commercialize education. The film also explores the controversial policy of caste-based reservations in Indian institutions. It received mixed reviews but was praised for its performances and bold subject matter. The film was released on August 12, 2011.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Epicon, MX Player, Prime Video, ShemarooMe, Airtel Xstream Play
- Theatrical Release
- 12 August 2011
- Director
- Prakash Jha
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 2h 44m
- Rating
- 6.3/10
Storyline
Prabhakar Anand is a college principal who believes in equal education for all castes. His favorite student Deepak Kumar supports caste-based reservations. When the government announces new reservation rules, a rich businessman spreads lies. Deepak turns against Prabhakar. The film asks: can education truly unite a divided society?
“Education is the only reservation.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew







Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Aarakshan
Cast reunions in this film: Manoj Bajpai & Manoj Bajpayee (29 films together), Hema Malini & Amitabh Bachchan (11 films together), Yashpal Sharma & Mukesh Tiwari (5 films together), Prakash Jha & Sachin K Krishn (4 films together), Deepika Padukone & Saif Ali Khan (3 films together), and Manoj Bajpai & Amitabh Bachchan (3 films together).
Trivia
- The film was banned in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh due to its sensitive caste-based theme.
- Aarakshan was the first Hindi film to be shot at the prestigious Doon School in Dehradun.
- Director Prakash Jha cast real-life students and teachers as extras to add authenticity to the college scenes.
- The movie's release was delayed by two months after the censor board asked for multiple cuts.
- Saif Ali Khan prepared for his role by spending time with actual college professors in Bhopal.
- The title 'Aarakshan' translates to 'reservation', directly referring to India's affirmative action policies.
- Despite its controversial subject, the film was selected as India's official entry to the Asia Pacific Film Festival.
