Dear Shah Rukh,
My one-sided love affair with you began when I was just 4 years old, watching a charming man in a mustard field with his arms outstretched. I can still vividly recall the cinema hall erupting into whistles and applause when the girl came running to you. I sat there with a huge smile on my face, and my mother tells me that I proudly referred to you as ‘My Hero’ for days.
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, which released in 1995, was the first film I saw in a theater. As a young Bollywood enthusiast, I found immense comfort and happiness in watching you. The dream of meeting you has been with me ever since, and the mere thought of it brings tears of joy to my eyes.
Now, nearly 26 years later, I am still that devoted fan who eagerly wakes up early to catch the first show of your films. I excitedly review each film as if it were my own, eagerly awaiting to see you captivate us with your smile and dimples.
Shah Rukh Khan, regardless of what the future holds, you will always be the superstar of Hindi cinema. Your stardom is unmatched by any other actor in the industry. When I finally meet you, I’ll be curious to ask, “How does it feel to be SRK?”
I deeply admire how you’ve navigated through tough times and controversies surrounding you, your films, and your family. You deserve a standing ovation for your resilience. You are a hero both on and off the screen. While some say you’ve set such high standards that women are searching for their Raj, I believe you’ve raised the bar so high that I am waiting to find my Shah Rukh—a man who loves his family unconditionally and would protect them at all costs. That’s the essence of love for me.
Over the years, I’ve laughed, cried, and danced with you, and I must admit, you’ve disappointed me at times with the choices you’ve made in films. However, your interviews reveal a person who is well-read, self-aware, and humorously self-deprecating—a person whose wisdom and experience make listening to you a true pleasure.
Shah Rukh, no matter how dark the days may get, there will always be a sea of fans outside Mannat, eagerly waiting to celebrate you on your birthday or before your film releases. That enduring dedication is your legacy.
Yours Truly,
A Fan (always and forever)