Bollywood star Aamir Khan Monday cautioned people to stay away from the political leaders who try to divide the country on the basis of religion, caste or community.

Responding to a query on the recent controversy between Raj Thackeray and Jaya Bachchan, Aamir said: "People should stay away from politicians and leaders who try to divide the masses on the basis of religion, caste or community."

"It is harmful to the country and does no good to anyone. Any leader who tries to divide people on that line does that for his own personal gain and people should understand his intentions and stay away from him."

"People should not vote them to power as that will be harmful for everyone," the actor-turned-director said without naming any politician.

Aamir was addressing a press conference, for the promotion for his film "Taare Zameen Par" that has been selected as the Indian official entry to the Oscars.

"India (has) several languages and people should respect each one of them. One should respect the local language as it is also an integral part of any culture," he said.