Today, Shah Rukh Khan celebrates 20 years in the film industry – his first film, Deewana, released on June 25th, 1992. Now, 20 years later, he is the undisputed King Khan – a tribute to the long journey that has been paved with success, fame, prosperity, adulation, and of course a few controversies. To celebrate his 20 years in films, we’re giving you 20 reasons why SRK is one of the most loved men within the industry – and, of course, we’ve taken your reasons into consideration as well.
1) He’s a self-made star.
He lived a decidedly middle-class life and had no family in the film industry – yet he took his career into his own hands, started off with a few television serials, forayed into films and then from there made his own way to the top!
2) He’s dedicated.
Making his way to the top was a result of mostly his dedication. He often claims to be workaholic, always needing to do something to feel satisfied. His passion for his work is perhaps the biggest reason why he is Shah Rukh Khan today.
3) He’s entertaining.
He goes beyond being just an actor, and is in fact an entertainer in the truest sense. His sharp wit and affable grin make him a treat to watch.
4) He’s good looking.
At first glance, he may not have the conventional hero looks. But there’s something so distinctively SRK about him that makes him one attractive man. And, of course, his recent six-pack doesn’t hurt at all.
5) He has the cutest dimples.
One of the main reason behind his attractiveness are those darned dimples. Probably the best in the industry, one flash of those dimples coupled with his humble smile, and even the stoniest of hearts can turn into a puddle of goo.
6) He can make you laugh and cry.
Case in point: Kal Ho Naa Ho. He made me crack up during the first half, and cry a river during the second half. He knows how to work people’s emotions, one of his greatest strengths as an actor.
7) He’s the ultimate romantic hero.
He makes you want to fall in love with love, and then with him. From his classic pose to his dialogue delivery to his warm smiles, everything about him screams romance.
8) He shows variety in his acting.
Despite being the ultimate romantic hero, he’s played several other types of characters in his illustrious career as well. He’s played an autistic adult, a hard-hitting coach, and was even a villain back before it wasn’t cool to be one.
9) He respects women.
One of the greatest qualities of SRK is his respect for women. In one Simi Garewal interview, in particular, he was asked whether he thinks he comes across as feminine because of the way he understands and relates to women. Instead of balking at the idea like most would, he instead said that being compared to a woman is an honor for him.
10) He’s a smart businessman.
He, of course, works the creative side of films – but doesn’t fail to understand that the industry is a business and should be treated as such. From his brand endorsements to marketing his film Ra.One (and ensuring that the marketing costs were covered through brand tie-ups), he’s shown he’s an astute businessman.
11) He’s a philanthropist.
He’s a great businessman but doesn’t forget to give back – et we don’t tend to hear that much about his charity. He’s associated with the causes of polio, AIDS, cancer, child labour and many more. In addition, he’s on the board of directors of Make a Wish Foundation India, is the ambassador of Water Supply and Sanitation Collaborative Council, and has adopted villages during the NDTV Greenathons.
12) He’s charming.
I’m fairly certain he’s the most charming man in the industry. He knows how to say the right things and how to work the crowd – when you put those things together with his smile, dimples and warm eyes, you’ve got a guy who can turn you into a puddle of goo in ten seconds, flat.
13) He makes everyone feel special.
In so many interviews I’ve read of his, the interviewers seem to be absolutely taken by his charm and his ability to make you feel like you’re incredibly special. I remember the first time I met him – I stretched out my hand to shake his, he specially came around to give me a handshake, said a quick “bye” and then did his routine headpat. Of course, I melted and wondered if I should ever wash my hand again!
14) He’s an inspiration.
His success story makes a lot of people believe they can do it, too. And actress Tara Sharma Saluja said she did one of her first ads with him, and he was sweet, helpful, and made her want to go into acting!
15) He’s a family man.
He’s devoted to his wife and can’t get enough of talking about his kids. They truly seem to make his world go round – just have a look at this earlier post we did to see what we mean!
16) He’s a good speaker.
He always seems at ease with himself, and comfortable when speaking to a large audience. What makes him an especially good speaker is the fact that he’s not afraid to laugh at himself.
17) He posts interesting tweets.
From his philosophical pondering to quotes to random thoughts, SRK’s tweets prove to be inspirational, fodder for thought, and sometimes just darn entertaining!
18) He’s a trendsetter.
After the release of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, the youth tried to ape his college fashion. And till today, people still utter his “K-k-k-Kiran” with full intensity!
19) He’s a good friend.
He has numberous friendships within the industry, and they always talk about what a wonderful person he is. Despite the fact that he’s had trouble with many of them (what’s a friendship without ups and downs?), he’s always made amends.
20) He’s humble.
Even after being hugely successful, he’s managed to keep his feet on the ground. A few ego trips notwithstanding, he’s managed to appear both humble and graceful. His apology for the Wankhede brawl on national television surely earned him some respect.
Here’s wishing SRK a happy 20 years and hopefully another 20 years full of success. Meanwhile, why don’t you tell us what are the reasons that make you love SRK?