When Shah Rukh Khan Asked To Be Called The 'King' And Not Just 'King Of Romance'

Shah Rukh Khan celebrates his birthday on November 2. The superstar gets wiser, better and more handsome as he turns 58, this year.

New Delhi: Shah Rukh Khan celebrates his birthday on November 2. The superstar gets wiser, better and more handsome as he turns 58, this year. To mark King Khan's special day, fans and admirers gathered outside the actor's residence, 'Mannat', and showered him with their love and blessings. Often hailed as the 'King of Romance,' SRK has captivated the hearts of millions for over three decades with his incredible acting prowess. From his humble beginnings to his rise to superstardom, and his thoughts on the title that defines him, Shah Rukh Khan's journey in the world of cinema is nothing short of remarkable.

Shah Rukh Khan's entry into the world of acting is a tale of perseverance and ambition. He started his Bollywood journey with the 1992 film 'Deewana,' and from that moment, there was no looking back. His early years in the industry saw him playing a variety of roles, including the anti-hero, successfully challenging the conventional notions of stardom. Films like 'Darr,' 'Baazigar,' and 'Anjaam' showcased his versatility as an actor and established him as more than just a romantic lead.

However, it was the 1995 release, 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge,' that etched Shah Rukh Khan's name in the history of Bollywood. The film not only became a blockbuster but also cemented his image as the ultimate romantic hero. This iconic love story with Kajol remains a classic, and his portrayal of Raj Malhotra is etched in the memories of fans across generations.

But what truly sets Shah Rukh Khan apart from the crowd is his insistence on not being pigeonholed into a single genre or image. While the title 'King of Romance' is undeniably fitting, he has consistently proven that there is much more to him as an actor. During an interview with PTI in 2012, SRK said, "I can proclaim that girls love me in romantic roles. With all due respect, I would rather be called a 'King' than the 'King of Romance'. I am an actor. I have done 75 films and have spent 21 years in the industry and would like to believe that I have done it differently."

In fact, Shah Rukh Khan has always sought to challenge himself with a wide range of roles and genres. He has embraced diverse characters and narratives, from the intense and ruthless Don in 'Don' to the poignant portrayal of an autistic man in 'My Name Is Khan.' These roles showcased his depth and versatility as an actor, earning him accolades and admiration from both critics and audiences.

His insistence on not being confined to a singular title is evident when he said during the same interview,"I had hated to be (called) just the 'King of Romance.' I enjoyed doing 'Don.' I was completely in love with how I approached my role in 'My Name Is Khan.' I would like to be remembered as an actor who is trying hard in a commercial set-up."

Shah Rukh Khan's enduring appeal and success in Bollywood are a testament to his dedication, talent, and his constant quest to push the boundaries of his craft. Beyond the romantic hero, he is a versatile actor who continues to challenge himself with every new project. As we celebrate his 58th birthday, we can only look forward to more iconic roles and cinematic brilliance from the man who has ruled our hearts for over three decades.

Happy Birthday to the one and only Shah Rukh Khan!