Bollywood King Shah Rukh Khan, popularly known as SRK, continues to captivate audiences across generations, from Gen Z remixes to millennials who grew up with him and boomers who watched him rise to stardom. The Hindi film superstar, who turns 60 on November 2, remains one of the most recognizable and influential figures in Indian cinema.
This year, Khan has generated multiple viral moments. In May, he became the first Indian male actor to walk the Met Gala red carpet. In June, he made a cameo in Ed Sheeran’s music video for “Sapphire.” More recently, in October, a selfie with South Korean “Squid Game” star Lee Jung-jae in Riyadh went viral, with fans dubbing it the “collab of the century.” Google Trends show his popularity stretches from Mauritius to Myanmar, reflecting his global reach.
Since his film debut in 1992, Khan has portrayed diverse roles in over 80 films. He became the romantic icon in Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995), played a disgraced hockey coach seeking redemption in Chak De! India (2007), and most recently starred in Jawan (2023), where he took on six different avatars echoing his earlier roles. His performance in Jawan earned him his first-ever Indian National Film Award for Best Actor in September.
SRK’s enduring appeal highlights his ability to transcend generations, platforms, and borders, solidifying his status as a global cinematic legend.
Shah Rukh Khan was born and raised in Delhi. He started his acting career with television shows like Fauji (1989) and Circus (1989), where his natural energy and charm made him instantly likeable. But in 1992, with Deewana, he entered Bollywood, and there was no looking back.
Unlike most newcomers who chose romantic roles, SRK took a bold path with films like Baazigar (1993) and Darr (1993), which portrayed him as an anti-hero. These performances made audiences notice his intensity and fearlessness as an actor.
While his anti-hero roles made him famous, it was romance that made him a legend. With Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995), SRK became the face of love for generations. The film not only broke box-office records but also ran for years in Mumbai’s Maratha Mandir theatre.
Then came Dil To Pagal Hai (1997), Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998), and Mohabbatein (2000). Each of these films showed different shades of love, but they all had one thing in common: Shah Rukh Khan’s magnetic presence. His charm, heartfelt expressions, and chemistry with co-stars like Kajol and Madhuri Dixit made him the undisputed 'King of Romance.'
While romance defined him, Shah Rukh Khan never limited himself to one genre. He continuously experimented, taking on emotionally rich and thought-provoking roles. In Devdas (2002), he portrayed the tragic lover. In Swades (2004), he brought authenticity to the role of an NRI who returns to serve his country. And in My Name Is Khan (2010), he took on a powerful performance as a man with Asperger’s syndrome, delivering one of his career’s most memorable roles.
Beyond romance and drama, SRK explored action and comedy too. From Don and Chak De! From India to Om Shanti Om, Happy New Year, he proved that he could adapt to any role, a true performer at heart.
Even after more than three decades in the industry, Shah Rukh Khan’s magic hasn’t faded. After a brief break from films, he made a grand return with Pathaan (2023) and Jawan (2023), both of which smashed box-office records. These films reminded audiences why SRK remains irreplaceable.
Khan is co-chairman of the motion picture production company Red Chillies Entertainment and its subsidiaries and is the co-owner of the Indian Premier League cricket team Kolkata Knight Riders and the Caribbean Premier League team Trinbago Knight Riders.
In 2023, Time named him as one of the most influential people in the world.
Apart from his acting prowess, he is a loving father and husband.
Married to Gauri Khan, SRK has three children: Aryan, Suhana and Abram. He has a very profound and fond relationship and love for his children.
Undoubtedly, his kids are leaving no stone unturned in proving their talent. If Aryan Khan is stepping into filmmaking, Suhana Khan is embracing the camera as an actor, and little AbRam Khan is already a favourite among fans. Together, they are carrying forward the Khan legacy in their unique ways.
As Shah Rukh Khan turned 60 fans flocked to his Mumbai residence, Mannat, holding banners, chanting his name, and hoping for a glimpse of the "King of Bollywood."
Crowds lined the streets, holding posters and banners reading "We love you SRK" and "Happy Birthday King Khan".
Shah Rukh Khan greets millions of fans gathered outside Mannat at midnight on his birthday — waves, blows kisses, and thanks his admirers for their endless love.
Bd-pratidin English/ ANI
