Manoj Bajpayee says Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Salman Khan got their stardom at the age of 25: 'They don't know what it is to be without fans'

Manoj Bajpayee recently opened up about why he never chased big stardom. According to him, being around lots of new fans can feel overwhelming. Unlike other Bollywood superstars like Shah Rukh, Aamir, or Salman Khan, his journey has been different—he’s always focused more on his work than on fame.

A career focused on work, not fame

Manoj told Bollywood Bubble that he’s always focused on his work, not fame. Some of his films were hits, some did okay, and a few went unnoticed. He’s happy following a path away from stardom and working on projects he enjoys.

Exploring diverse roles through OTT

In recent years, thanks to OTT platforms, the actor has explored many different roles. But being around so many new fans can feel overwhelming for him. Unlike stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan and Ajay Devgn who became famous in their 20s, he spent most of his career out of the spotlight, so sudden fame feels like an intrusion into his personal space.


When asked about the secret to his success, Manoj admitted even he doesn’t have a clear answer. He shared that his wife's take on his 32-year career, saying she once called it a miracle that he’s still thriving in an industry where many struggle, despite taking risks with unconventional films.

Upcoming project

On the work front, Manoj Bajpayee will soon be seen in Jugnuma (The Fable). Directed by Raam Reddy, it is set in the late 1980s, the story follows Dev, played by Manoj, who discovers burnt trees in his sprawling fruit orchards in the Himalayas. As the fires keep spreading despite his efforts, he is forced to face some hard truths about himself and his family, according to the makers.



The film also features Tillotama Shome, Deepak Dobriyal, Priyanka Bose, Awan Pookot, and Hiral Sidhu in key roles. Jugnuma hit theaters across India on September 12 and is presented by Guneet Monga and Anurag Kashyap.