Image Source: The Indian Express
In a touching moment that has gone viral, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan recently revealed to Amitabh Bachchan on Kaun Banega Crorepati the very personal reason he never went to Kashmir for most of his life-a vow to his late father that touched millions around the country.
A Promise That Shaped a Lifetime
While appearing on the hit quiz show, Shah Rukh Khan shared a tearful anecdote from his childhood. He shared that his paternal grandmother was Kashmiri, and he thus has a special affinity for the state. His father, before he died when Shah Rukh was only 15, had made a wish: "There are three places you must see in life-Istanbul, Italy, and Kashmir.". But even if you view the first two without me, do not view Kashmir without me. I will show you Kashmir myself.".
Even with many opportunities-parties from his friends, vacations with the family, and work assignments-Shah Rukh firmly refused to go to Kashmir. "I've been all around the world, but I never went to Kashmir. Friends invited me many times, the family went on vacation, but I never went. My father had invited me to visit Kashmir with him, and I could not go without him," he informed Amitabh Bachchan, palpably shaken by recollection.
A Visit Satisfied-But Not Quite as Envisioned
It was not until 2012, when Shah Rukh shot Yash Chopra's romantic epic Jab Tak Hai Jaan, that he finally arrived in Kashmir. He called Yash Chopra a "father figure," and fans are convinced that this rendered the visit meaningful, if not quite the realization of his father's dream.
After his initial visit, Shah Rukh posted on social media: "My father's one unresolved dream was to bring me to Kashmir. today I am here, it's like I am in his big, sturdy arms". He has since visited Kashmir again, most recently in April 2023 for the filming of Rajkumar Hirani's Dunki.
A Viral Moment That Touched Millions
The clip of Shah Rukh's confession has quickly gone viral on the internet, with fans and viewers praising his commitment to his father's words. The tale reveals a side of Shah Rukh Khan not often seen in public-one characterized by love, respect, and the long-lasting power of family.
My father advised me not to visit Kashmir in his absence. I had several opportunities, but I never went. Because my father had said, 'Kashmir main dikhaunga' (I will show you Kashmir)."
Shah Rukh Khan on Kaun Banega Crorepati
Sources: Times of India, Live Hindustan, Moneycontrol, Jansatta, NewsX, Bollywood Hungama
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