‘Was insecure about my looks’: When Shah Rukh Khan doubted himself, and how Rishi Kapoor’s words changed him during ‘Deewana’

The passing of Rishi Kapoor left a deep void across the Hindi film industry, but among the many tributes, Shah Rukh Khan’s words stood out for their emotional honesty. Their association began with ‘Deewana’, SRK’s debut film, where he shared screen space with the veteran star. Looking back, Shah Rukh opened up about how a seemingly small moment with Rishi Kapoor became a turning point in his journey.


Recalling his first day on the set of ‘Deewana’, Shah Rukh described himself as anxious and uncertain. Entering the film industry without a conventional hero’s persona, he admitted, “As a young man entering the daunting world of films, I was insecure about the way I looked and afraid that I was not talented enough.”



Despite his fears, one thought kept him steady, getting to work alongside Rishi Kapoor. He shared, “The thought of failing meant nothing though, because even if I failed, I would have worked with the greatest actor I knew of – Rishi Sahib.”

Rishi Kapoor’s compliment that changed everything for Shah Rukh Khan

What followed on that very first day became a lifelong memory. Even after pack-up was announced, Rishi Kapoor stayed back to observe the newcomer’s performance. After watching the shot, he simply said, “Yaar tujhme energy bahut hai.” That brief acknowledgment carried immense weight for Shah Rukh. Reflecting on it, he said, “That day in my head I became an actor!” A single sentence from an established star gave him the validation he didn’t know he needed.


Years later, Shah Rukh revealed that he met Rishi Kapoor shortly before his passing, intending to thank him for that defining moment. However, the veteran actor was unaware of the impact he had created. “He had no idea how he had encouraged me,” SRK admitted. He further praised Kapoor’s personality, saying, “Few men have the capacity for grace as he did, fewer still have the large-heartedness of feeling genuine happiness for the success of others.”

Shah Rukh Khan's final note for Rishi Kapoor

For Shah Rukh, the loss was deeply personal. Beyond films and fame, it was the warmth of their interactions that stayed with him. “I will miss him for his gentle pat on my head every time we met… I will keep it in my heart always, as the ‘Ashirwaad’ that made me who I am today,” he shared. Alongside his note, he expressed condolences to the Kapoor family, writing, “Heartfelt condolences to the Kapoor khandaan. May Allah give you all the strength to deal with your loss.”

Remembering Rishi Kapoor on his death anniversary

Today marks the death anniversary of Rishi Kapoor, a legend whose contribution to Hindi cinema remains unparalleled. From his debut as a romantic hero in ‘Bobby’ to delivering powerful performances in later films like ‘Agneepath’, ‘Kapoor & Sons’, and ‘Mulk’, he showcased remarkable versatility.


Over a career spanning decades, he became one of Bollywood’s most enduring stars, known for his charm, emotional depth, and ability to reinvent himself. His legacy continues to inspire generations of actors, and stories like Shah Rukh Khan’s stand as a testament to the quiet yet powerful influence he had on people around him.

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