QUICK TAKE | Shah Rukh Khan at 61: Seven lesser-known stories behind the King of Bollywood

1. What did Shah Rukh Khan do when he couldn't afford cinema tickets as a child?

As a child in Delhi, SRK once accompanied his father, Taj Mohammed Khan, to watch a film near Kamani Auditorium. They could not afford tickets and ended up sitting outside, watching vehicles pass. Many years later in an interview, the actor recalled how the experience stayed with him. Years later, he remembered it while taking his son Aryan to the cinema.

2. He grew up around some of India's finest theatre actors

His father was associated with the canteen at Delhi's National School of Drama. Veteran actor Pankaj Kapur told The Indian Express in June this year that a 10-year-old Shah Rukh would supply samosas to performers during play intervals. The young boy also watched rehearsals and performances, absorbing the craft long before he became an actor.

3. Was television his first choice over Bollywood?

Surprisingly, yes. After Fauji (1988) made him a familiar face, SRK was comfortable working in television and theatre. His Circus co-star Renuka Shahane told Hindustan Times in 2025 that he was happy in that world, while his mother wanted him to become a film star. He eventually made his film debut with Deewana in 1992.

4. What was Shah Rukh Khan’s first salary?

SRK’s first reported pay cheque was just Rs 50. In an interview, he spoke about spending his early earnings on a memorable trip to the Taj Mahal. The figure offers a striking contrast with the global superstar and entrepreneur he would become.

5. Did a sports injury change Shah Rukh Khan’s career plans?

Before acting took over, SRK wanted to pursue sports. A lower-back injury disrupted those ambitions and left him bedridden for weeks. He later recalled that a theatre performance at Delhi's Lady Shri Ram College helped draw him towards acting.

6. Why did he take a break after Zero?

Following the 2018 film's disappointing reception, SRK stepped away from acting for several years. He has spoken about using that period to spend time with family and rethink his choices before returning with Pathaan and Jawan in 2023.

7. What is SRK doing at 61?

The actor marked his birthday with a new glimpse of King, his upcoming action film directed by Siddharth Anand. The song Tu Mil Jaaye, featuring Deepika Padukone, was unveiled for fans. The film is scheduled for a December 24, 2026 theatrical release.