Disability aesthetics in Indian cinema often refers to the portrayal of disability in a stereotypical and exaggerated manner, which reinforces negative perceptions and prejudices towards people with disabilities.

While disability is often portrayed as a punishment for past sins, a result of supernatural causes, or a hindrance to personal and social success, it is less common to see disability depicted as a source of inspiration and empowerment in Indian cinema.

The portrayal of disability in Indian cinema often reinforces negative stereotypes and prejudices, which can contribute to the social stigma and discrimination experienced by people with disabilities.

Taare Zameen Par (2007) is widely regarded as a film that challenges stereotypes and presents a nuanced portrayal of disability, particularly in the context of dyslexia.

The disability rights movement has played a significant role in shaping the portrayal of disability in Indian cinema by advocating for increased representation, challenging stereotypes, and promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities in the filmmaking process.

Margarita with a Straw (2014) features a disabled character, Laila, as the protagonist, who navigates her life with cerebral palsy.

Filmmakers can contribute to promoting a more inclusive and accurate representation of disability in Indian cinema by consulting with disability rights organizations and individuals with disabilities, conducting research and gaining a deeper understanding of disability, and avoiding stereotypes and sensationalism in their portrayal of disability.

Accurate and sensitive representation of disability in Indian cinema challenges stereotypes, promotes inclusivity, raises awareness and understanding of disability, and provides positive role models for people with disabilities.

While people with disabilities may face challenges in terms of representation, portrayal, and employment opportunities in the Indian film industry, access to film sets and equipment is generally not a major issue.

The audience plays a crucial role in shaping the portrayal of disability in Indian cinema by demanding more accurate and sensitive representation, supporting films that challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity, and providing feedback to filmmakers and studios on their portrayal of disability.

Piku (2015) features a disabled character, Rana Chaudhary, played by Amitabh Bachchan, in a supporting role.

The Indian film industry can create a more inclusive environment for people with disabilities by providing training and opportunities for them to work in the industry, creating accessible film sets and workplaces, and promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities in decision-making roles.

While disability is often portrayed as a source of inspiration in Indian cinema, it is not always the case. There are many films that depict disability in a realistic and authentic manner, without resorting to inspiration as the primary narrative.

The 'disability aesthetics' movement in Indian cinema challenges the traditional portrayal of disability, promotes a more realistic and authentic representation of disability, and encourages filmmakers to explore new and innovative ways of storytelling.

Darr (1993) features a disabled character, Rahul Mehra, played by Shah Rukh Khan, in a negative or villainous role.