Shah Rukh Khan has been working in the Bollywood industry for 34 years, creating many iconic films and gaining recognition. When he started his career, working in Hollywood was not easy, as some representatives of the criminal world were expanding their influence and trying to establish themselves in the film industry in Mumbai.
At a time when criminal figures began investing in star films and inviting actors to their events, they often used intimidation to achieve their goals. However, among the stars were those who refused to bow down to them, including Shah Rukh Khan.
A recent story about how Shah Rukh Khan did not yield to the influence of the criminal world was told by director Sanjay Gupta. In the podcast 'Hussain Zaidi Files,' Sanjay Gupta stated that among all people in the film industry, only Shah Rukh Khan openly declared that he would not act in any film or participate in any show for these people, despite threats. He stated: 'I am Pan, if you want to shoot, shoot.' Gupta noted that he respects such courage.
Anpuma Chopra, wife of director Vidhu Vinod Chopra, previously spoke about the threats Shah Rukh faced. She claimed that in 1997, when Shah Rukh was working on Mahesh Bhatt's film 'Duplicate,' Abu Salem called him. Although he was slightly worried after this call, he firmly refused Abu Salem's cooperation, responding with resolute words.
Filmmaker Karan Johar also shared in his book experiences of receiving threats from the criminal world. He recounted that before the release of some of his films, he received threats from criminal elements, but Shah Rukh supported him, acting like an elder brother and convincing him. Shah Rukh helped Karan with the film's release. Despite not being afraid of these threats, Shah Rukh subsequently had to live under police protection and heavy security for about three years.
Regarding Shah Rukh Khan's current creative activities, he is attracting attention with his upcoming film 'King,' which is scheduled for release on December 24, generating great anticipation among fans and film lovers.