Remember Shah Rukh Khan, the Bollywood king? Before all the glitz and glamour, he was just another TV actor hustling for his big break. And guess what? He wasn’t afraid to turn down even big-ticket projects if they didn’t feel right.
Veteran actor Mushtaq Khan, who worked with SRK in their early days, recently revealed a fascinating anecdote. Back then, Shah Rukh was offered a film by renowned producer Pranlal Mehta. But instead of jumping at the chance, he took his time, much to Mushtaq’s surprise.
Why the hesitation? The role, Shah Rukh explained, wasn’t meaty enough. He wouldn’t just be standing in the shadow of a bigger star. This bold move, made before he even tasted superstardom, speaks volumes about Shah Rukh’s early dedication to his craft.
But the story doesn’t end there. Mushtaq also shed light on the realities of Bollywood pay disparity. He recalled his own experience on the film “Welcome,” where his payment could have been less than Akshay Kumar’s staff! Despite struggling with such inequalities, Mushtaq finds hope in the new generation. He points to films like “Stree 2” and “Railway Men” where actors and production houses value every crew member, creating a more positive and respectful environment.
So, the next time you see Shah Rukh Khan on screen, remember his unwavering hunger for quality roles and his early days of fighting for what he believed in. It’s a journey that makes his success even more inspiring!
