Hyderabad:Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan is celebrating his 59th birthday today, November 2, 2024. Over his illustrious career spanning three decades, the actor has captivated audiences with his charm, wit, and unforgettable performances. In an event, years ago, SRK opened up about the values that shaped his life and career. Known as "King Khan" and "Baadshah of Bollywood," Shah Rukh's journey from modest beginnings to global stardom reveals a deep connection to his roots, particularly the enduring influence of his late parents, Taj Mohammed Khan and Lateef Fatima Khan.
In his youth, Shah Rukh Khan imbibed contrasting yet complementary values from his father and mother, shaping his unique perspective on success and failure. He fondly recalls his father, a non-practising lawyer and freedom fighter, as a gentle, idealistic man who instilled in him a "fear of failure" that would later drive his pursuit of excellence. "My father was the most successful failure in the world, and I'm very proud of him," Shah Rukh once shared, reflecting on the quiet dignity with which his father embraced setbacks. As he described, Taj Mohammed Khan was tall, charismatic, and deeply principled, unwilling to compromise his ethics, even if it meant facing hardship.
One of Shah Rukh's most poignant memories is a day he spent with his father, who, without mentioning their limited finances, took him to a public space to watch cars go by, making it feel like an adventure rather than a compromise. It was only later that Shah Rukh's mother explained that they hadn't gone to a cinema because they couldn't afford it at the time. This memory remains deeply cherished, reminding Shah Rukh of his father's quiet resilience and ability to find joy even in difficult circumstances.
Meanwhile, his mother, Lateef Fatima Khan, a magistrate with a more pragmatic outlook, demonstrated a strong enthusiasm for financial independence and stability. After Taj's passing, she dedicated herself to ensuring that Shah Rukh and his siblings were well-educated, believing that knowledge would secure their futures. Her practical approach, ambition, and drive inspired Shah Rukh's commitment to succeed and build a financially secure life. He recalls his mother as a "go-getter," fiercely determined to provide for her family against the odds.