Magnetic, talented, histrionic, he spell-binds the viewers, takes them deep into the story as it unfolds on the screen.
Celebrated at home and abroad, his life-size wax statue stands at Madame Tussauds sharing niche with the world’s great. He has won tons of awards – some 200, including 14 Filmfare Awards. With his perfect dimples and winning smile, and his trademark outstretched arms, this versatile actor reminds us that it pays to work hard.
Early life
Shah Rukh Khan was born on November 2, 1965 in New Delhi. A bright student from St. Columba’s School, he received the school’s highest award, the Sword of Honour. He had also captained all teams in football, cricket and hockey and even played cricket at Zone and National level. He got his Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Hansraj College. He took the death of his parents as a motivator for the hard work ethic in his own life.
Career
Khan started his career with theatre and TV appearances. His acting in serials, Fauji (1988), Circus (1989) made roars in the television industry.
His debut film Deewana (1992) turned out to be the launching pad for his claim to fame. He was critically acclaimed for his anti-hero performance in Darr (1993) and Baazigar (1993).
In his next ventures, he turned hero giving out a series of blockbusters— Karan Arjun(1995), Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995), Pardes (1997), Dil to Pagal Hai (1997).
His popularity crossed borders with “Dil se..” (1998) which was critically acclaimed critics from around the world. Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998), Hey Ram (2000), Mohabbatein (2000) further enhanced his recognition at the international level.
The actor turned producer with the establishment of production company, Dreamz Unlimited.
He solidified his status of being the king of bollywood by dominating the Filmfare awards and presenting iconic performances— “Veer Zaara” (2004), “Swades” (2004)Chak De! India (2007).
Khan became a money-making champion through Ra.One(2011), Don 2(2011), Jab Tak Hai Jaan(2012) and Chennai Express(2013), all grossing over $2billion.
Philanthropist
Khan is known for keeping a low profile and secrecy on his social commitments and humanitarian work.
He has been brand ambassador of various governmental campaigns throughout the years, notably those of Pulse Polio and National AIDS Control Organisation.
He joined hands with India’s Health Ministry and UNICEF for a nationwide child immunization campaign as part of National Rural Health Mission of India.
Honors
1997 – Best Indian Citizen Award
2005 – Padma Shri
2007 – The Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government for his “exceptional career”
2011 – The Unesco Pyramide con Marni award for his charity engagements and social commitment towards providing education for kids
2013 – Appointed as goodwill ambassador by the government of South Korea