As the “King of Romance,” Shah Rukh Khan has long captivated audiences with his portrayals of iconic characters in beloved love stories. Taking the mantle from legendary filmmaker Yash Chopra, Khan became the quintessential romantic hero with films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. But while he has crafted an unforgettable image in romantic cinema, Shah Rukh’s own artistic preferences reveal a more nuanced perspective.
Trained under theatre stalwart Barry John, Khan’s approach to acting diverges from the genre that brought him fame. On his birthday, we delve into the lesser-known favorites from his illustrious career, offering insight into the actor behind the persona.
The Surprise Choice: ‘Dil Se’
In a candid revelation on What Cyrus Says, filmmaker Nikkhil Advani shared a surprising fact about the actor: “He hates love stories.” Advani, who directed Khan in Ra.One, noted that even during romantic projects like Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, the actor was inclined toward more dramatic rather than romantic portrayals, often pushing to deepen his characters’ narratives beyond love.
For an actor who has gifted fans numerous romantic hits, his personal favorite film is a departure from these. According to Advani, Shah Rukh’s top choice is Dil Se, a 1998 film directed by Mani Ratnam. Known for its unconventional storyline, Dil Se offered Shah Rukh a rare opportunity to portray a complex, flawed character in an intense, socially charged romance. Although the film was not a major box-office success in India, it found appreciation overseas and opened new markets for him among European and American audiences. The role marked a departure from his traditional “lover boy” image, and the film’s critical acclaim resonated deeply with him, far beyond commercial returns.
Favorite Role: Sunil from ‘Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa’
While Shah Rukh’s fan-favorite roles include the quintessential Raj and Rahul from films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, his personal favorite role reflects his desire for complexity. Shah Rukh’s preferred character is Sunil from Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa, where he played an earnest yet flawed young man who fails to get the girl. Far from the polished hero, Sunil was a grounded character, embodying vulnerabilities that mainstream heroes rarely display.
This early portrayal of a “loser” who forgoes grand triumphs for authenticity resonated with Khan and showcased his range as an actor. As Shah Rukh Khan’s career continues to evolve, his own favorites remind fans that behind the “King of Romance” lies an actor who has always yearned for authenticity and depth.
