The 'King' made his film debut with 'Deewana' in 1992. However, it wasn't actually the first film that he had signed.
Where our imagination ends, the phenomenon called Shah Rukh Khan begins. For instance, everyone during the early 2000s predicted that SRK, the King of Bollywood, would be replaced by the newcomers, especially Hrithik Roshan. Just watch any of those old clips of Roshan accepting his Best Actor award for 'Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai' or showcasing his insane dance moves on the stage. In almost each of them, you will notice the camera often inquisitively cutting to SRK's face in a close-up, implying a sense of insecurity in his eyes. Did he sense a strong competition in the newcomer who had just taken the world by storm? And was he really nervous thinking his throne would be taken over? We don't know (as Nana Patekar said in 'Welcome': "Ye Raaz Bhi Usike Saath Chala Gaya"). However, what we know is the 'DDLJ' star not only continued to reign supreme as the King but also grew bigger and bigger with time. Bollywood saw the rise of several other stars thereafter, and - with due respect to all - it is today as clear as daylight that no one can ever come close to his legacy, let alone the idea of replacing him. He is literally the LAST OF THE SUPERSTARS, whose only competition is himself!
Well, as far as Shah Rukh Khan's journey in Bollywood is concerned, it's a well-known fact that 'Deewana' (1992) was his debut. While the Raj Kanwar directorial was indeed the actor's first film to hit theaters, it wasn't really the first film that he had signed or acted in.
Shah Rukh Khan’s entry scene atop a bike in ‘Deewana’
Today, on the occasion of his 59th birthday, let's learn more about that in this article.
Directed by Raj Kanwar, the 1992 romantic action-drama film 'Deewana' marked the official debut of Shah Rukh Khan in Bollywood. He starred as the parallel lead in the film, receiving enormous acclaim from critics and audiences alike. And it earned him the Best Male Debut award at the 38th Filmfare Awards.
However, it's worth noting that SRK had already become a bonafide star before 'Deewana' - thanks to his work on Television. Having played the lead in successful TV shows such as 'Fauji', 'Circus', and 'Doosra Keval', he was flooded with film offers during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Shah Rukh Khan and Divya Bharti in a still from ‘Deewana’
Technically, the superstar's first film was 'In Which Annie Gives It Those Ones' (1989) which never hit theatres. Written by Arundhati Roy and directed by Pradip Krishen, the English-language film starred Arjun Raina as the lead, alongside Roshan Seth and Arundhati Roy in supporting roles. SRK appeared in a small role but managed to grab eyeballs with his performance. Manoj Bajpayee was in the film as well.
Shah Rukh Khan in ‘In Which Annie Gives It To Those Ones’
'In Which Annie Gives It Those Ones' was screened on Doordarshan, and went on to receive two National Film Awards in 1989. Over the years, it has acquired a 'cult' status.
It was Hema Malini, one of Hindi cinema's most popular personalities, who gave Shah Rukh Khan his first break.
Yes, 'Dil Aashna Hai', directed by ‘Dream Girl’, was the first Bollywood film that SRK signed (in 1991). Besides him, it also starred Divya Bharti, Jeetendra, Mithun Chakraborty, Dimple Kapadia, Amrita Singh, and Sonu Walia in pivotal roles. However, it ended up releasing later.
Shah Rukh Khan with his first director, Hema Malini
Years later, Hema Ji spoke about SRK's unprecedented stardom, saying, "Many people come up to me and say, ‘You made Shah Rukh Khan such a big star. Make me one too.’ I respond, ‘That’s not possible. He is incredibly talented. We just gave him an opportunity. The hard work and dedication are all his and he deserves the credit.'"
Notably, not just 'Dil Aashna Hai', SRK was also doing four other films before he was offered 'Deewana': 'Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman', 'Chamatkar', 'Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa', and 'King Uncle'. All of these were delayed in their theatrical release, and 'Deewana' ended up becoming the actor's debut film.
Hema Malini wasn't satisfied with SRK's first audition for 'Dil Aashna Hai'. However, she decided to give him a second chance.
SRK's role in 'Deewana' was first offered to actor Armaan Kohli. In fact, he shot for the first schedule and then opted out due to creative differences with the director. Thereafter, several other actors, including Avinash Wadhawan, were also reportedly considered for the role. Eventually, it was Divya Bharti, the film's leading lady, who suggested SRK's name to the makers.
The actor initially refused to work in 'Deewana' due to his date issues. However, things fell into place, paving his way to the film. And the rest - no matter how cliched it sounds - is history!
Happy Birthday, Shah Rukh Khan. We Love You!
