Applying Positive Psychology in Bollywood Cinema: A Qualitative Analysis of Taare Zameen Par Through the Lens of Strengths, Resilience, and Human Flourishing

Author

Anusha Shukla, Dr. Ratna Dixit Sharma

Abstract

 Positive Psychology focuses on the scientific study of strengths, well-being, resilience, positive emotions, and optimal human functioning. Since the emergence of Positive Psychology under Martin Seligman and Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (2000), researchers have explored how strengths-based approaches can facilitate psychological growth and flourishing. Cinema serves as a powerful medium for communicating psychological concepts to society. The Bollywood film Taare Zameen Par (2007), directed by Aamir Khan, presents the story of Ishaan Awasthi, a child with dyslexia who struggles with academic expectations, social rejection, and low self-esteem before discovering his strengths through supportive relationships and creative expression.

The present study aims to analyze Taare Zameen Par from a Positive Psychology perspective. Using qualitative thematic content analysis, the film was examined through key Positive Psychology constructs including character strengths, resilience, hope, self-efficacy, positive relationships, growth mindset, empathy, and flourishing. The findings indicate that the film portrays a strengths-based model of child development, demonstrating how recognition of individual talents, supportive educational environments, and compassionate mentoring contribute to psychological well-being. The character of Ram Shankar Nikumbh serves as a facilitator of positive transformation by identifying strengths rather than deficits. The study concludes that Taare Zameen Par effectively illustrates core principles of Positive Psychology and offers valuable implications for educators, parents, psychologists, and policymakers seeking to promote children’s well-being and academic success.

Keywords

Positive Psychology, Taare Zameen Par, Resilience, Character Strengths, Flourishing, Well-being, Dyslexia, Bollywood Cinema

DOI : https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.23588773

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