Have you recently seen your Bollywood stars in a much fresh, younger avatar? We are currently living in an era where technology can erase wrinkles faster than time can create them, Indian cinema is diving headfirst into the de-ageing revolution. From Shah Rukh Khan’s much younger look in 'Jawan', to Amitabh Bachchan’s futuristic look in 'Kalki 2898 AD', and Aamir Khan’s look in 'Laal Singh Chaddha', the silver screen is being reshaped.
However, as the lines blur between illusion and authenticity, we ask: at what cost?
The De-Ageing Technology In Movies
De-ageing technology, once the stuff of sci-fi, is now a regular thing at Indian VFX studios. Shah Rukh Khan-starrer 'Jawan' featured a visibly younger SRK in flashback sequences, with his face digitally smoothed. While the transformation was done smoothly, it reminded us of Bollywood's obsession with looking young.
Another example is Amitabh Bachchan's revised look in 'Kalki 2898 AD' that sparked intense online discussions. Many questions were raised by netizens—not just about the technology, but about whether we’re clinging to icons instead of making space for new faces.
While we were all in awe of AB's transformation and showcases the possibilities of VFX but also highlights an industry increasingly reliant on illusion rather than reinvention.
Similarly, in 'Laal Singh Chaddha', Aamir Khan used de-ageing to portray his character across decades. While the effect was subtle and narratively justified, it made us think about to what extent can technology change reality.
Limitations of the de-ageing technology
his trend reveals more than a fascination with tech—it exposes an underlying discomfort with ageing itself. In a society where youth is idolised, de-ageing offers an unlimited opportunity to look younger. But this pursuit also raises critical questions about authenticity, storytelling, and the very essence of acting.
The technical demands of de-ageing are massive as it requires advanced visual effects, post-production, and high budgets—resources not every film can afford. When done poorly, it can distract from the narrative
