Aarakshan (Hindi: आरक्षण, translation: Reservation) is a 2011 Hindi film starring Saif Ali Khan, Amitabh Bachchan and Deepika Padukone. Directed by Prakash Jha, the film is a socio-political drama based on the controversial policies of caste based reservations in government jobs and educational institutions. Like the majority of Jha's films, it takes on issues about the society and political affairs of India. Most of the shooting took place in Minal Residency, Oriental College, Upper Lake in Bhopal.The film also stars Prateik Babbar and Manoj Bajpayee and was released on August 12, 2011.

Aarakshan is the story of Prabhakar Anand (Amitabh Bachchan), the legendary idealistic principal of a college that he has single-handedly turned into the state's best. It is the story of his loyal disciple, Deepak Kumar (Saif Ali Khan) who will do anything for his Sir. Of Deepak's love for Prabhakar's daughter, Poorbi (Deepika Padukone), of his friendship with Sushant (Prateik Babbar). It is the story of their love, their lively friendship, their zest for life, and of their dreams for the future. Centered on one of the most controversial issues of recent years, with the Supreme Court's order on reservations, the story suddenly becomes a roller coaster ride of high drama, conflict, and rebellion, which tests their love and friendship for one another, and their loyalty to Prabhakar Anand.