China

Currently on a promotional tour for his movie "Secret Superstar", Bollywood star Aamir Khan has been making waves while strengthening the sharing dynamics of soft power between India and China. 

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While showcasing his movie, Khan can also be seen engaging in personal chats with the younger audience -- promoting not just his movie but also the idea of a Hindi movie in masses of China. 

Also Watch: Aamir Khan promotes 'Secret Superstar' in Shanghai, dances on Sexy Baliye

Also Read: Aamir Khan's 'Secret Superstar' soars in China, beats 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' at the box office

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Speaking on Khan's coming to India and his acceptance by the Chinese, Long Xingchun, director of the Center for Indian Studies at China West Normal University said, "Films and TV are more easily accepted by common citizens. Chinese people did not know much about India before and the images of India were mostly poverty and disaster. And because Indian media often have negative coverage and hostile reports on China, the Chinese do not have a very good impression of the nation." 

He added, "Chinese begin to realise the friendly, cute and positive sides of India and are impressed by the depth of thought."

Also Read: Move over 'Dangal', Aamir Khan's 'Secret Superstar' is the new favourite in China

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The fact that Aamir also extended a social media arm to his fans in China has gone a long way in establishing him as somebody who can be accepted wilfully by the Chinese as their own. Khan made an account on Twitter-like Chinese social networking site Sina Weibo less than a year ago -- has already amassed more than 1 million followers. 

PK, the first Aamir Khan film released on the Chinese mainland, introduced the actor to a wide audience. Chinese moviegoers marvelled when the then 51-year-old star gained and lost some 30 kilograms to portray a character in his next big role in the film Dangal. 

Meanwhile, Khan's Truth Alone Triumphs TV show won hearts for his attempts to improve society. 

An internet user from China wrote on Sina Weibo: "After watching Secret Superstar, all I want to say is Aamir Khan is not a simple man. He can be a genius, an affectionate lover, a funny guy, and in this film coquettish. I love him even deeper now!"

Another user wrote: "Although I don't like India, I still admire Aamir Khan. No other actor can push a nation and influence the world like he does."

Secret Superstar has earned 400 million yuan ($63.29 million) as of Sunday afternoon -- becoming the second bestselling Indian film on the Chinese mainland.