He is one of the greatest stars of Indian cinema. Shahrukh Khan has built his career and reputation on films playing on all registers, from comedy to drama, including science fiction and romance. The influence of this emblematic figure of India extends far beyond the borders of his country, notably due to his inspiring philanthropic commitments.
It was in November 1965 that Shahrukh Khan, sometimes spelled Shah Rukh Khan, was born in New Delhi, to a middle-class Muslim family. His father, Mir Taj Mohammad Khan, is known for his commitment to Indian independence. It is not surprising that his son later played an important role in promoting India and its values. Simultaneously with his studies in business and communication (at St. Columba’s School then at the University of Delhi), he joined amateur theatre troupes. A first step in the middle of the stage that will open the doors to television and cinema for him.
Varied roles and successful films
In 1988, he played in a series very rooted in Indian daily life, named Dil Darya. The scenario, where emotion has its place, allows him to exteriorize his feelings and to be noticed by his ability to move.
Orphan at the age of 25, he continues to play on television with Fauji, Ummeed or even Circus. He was then spotted by Bollywood and made his film debut with Deewana in 1992. The success of the film propels the young actor to the rank of star and makes him the winner of the Filmfare Award for best male newcomer the following year. The man knows how to play everything and switches from charismatic villains to romantic heroes par excellence, which continues to increase his popularity.
The actor triumphed in 1995 with Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. Even today, the film is one of the greatest successes in the history of Indian cinema. He then continues with several blockbuster acts: Baazigar, Darr, Dil Se, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Devdas, Veer-Zaara, Chak De! India, My Name is Khan… while continuing to explore various genres, from comedy to drama and science fiction.
For more than 20 years, Shahrukh Khan has enjoyed tremendous success and has been awarded more than 14 Filmfare Awards (the Indian equivalent of the Césars or the Oscars). He also engages as a producer with his company Red Chillies Entertainment. In 2023, after a few less popular films given his previous exploits, he experiences his greatest box-office triumph with Pathaan, an action film where he plays a superspy role, and Jawan, another action film where he encounters a monstrous outlaw. He is currently working on King (2026) with his daughter Suhana and produces a Netflix series directed by his son Aryan.
A committed and influential figure
If some of his roles carried important messages, relating to tolerance, freedom, the diaspora, disability and social injustices, Shahrukh Khan is distinguished by his own commitments, notably the promotion of India in the world and the funding of various causes. He is often invited by the Indian government to represent his country at international events (festivals, economic forums, prestigious universities).
In addition to cinema, Shahrukh Khan participates in the media coverage of cricket in the country with his team Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and supports Indian hockey. It has also provided support during national crises, such as after the 2004 tsunami, the floods in Chennai and Bihar and COVID-19. On the social side, it defends religious tolerance, diversity and pluralism; supports the education of children and girls, NGOs fighting against domestic violence, hospitals and sick children. He denounces sectarian violence and calls for national unity. “I believe that a true hero is someone who makes the world better, even a little bit, for others” he had moreover declared on the subject of philanthropy.
Praised for all these commitments and his gifts, he receives several awards throughout his career. He was distinguished in 2005 by one of the highest civilian distinctions in India, the Padma Shri, was appointed Officier des Arts et Lettres in 2008 and then Chevalier de la Légion d’honneur in 2014 in France, won the Cristal Award from the World Economic Forum (2018) for his work in favor of the empowerment of women and children in India and is even recognized by UNESCO for his philanthropic work.
Enough to make Shahrukh Khan shine in India and around the world. His fortune is estimated at more than 876 million dollars in 2025, which makes him the 4th richest actor in the world.
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Featured photo : © GQ India
