Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone Reflect on Stardom, Outsider Labels, and the Future of Indian Cinema at WAVES 2024
Bollywood megastars Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone, both of whom rose to fame without any ties to the film industry, shared their thoughts on success, identity, and their cinematic journey at the inaugural World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) held in Mumbai on Thursday.
Despite coming from non-film backgrounds — Khan from Delhi and Padukone from Bengaluru — both actors said they never truly felt like “outsiders” in the Hindi film industry.
The duo was in conversation with filmmaker Karan Johar at a session titled “The Journey: From Outsider to Ruler”, an apt theme considering their meteoric rise to the top in an industry often criticized for its favoritism and nepotism.
“I Never Felt Like I Didn’t Belong”: Deepika Padukone
Deepika Padukone, now one of the most respected names in Indian cinema, recalled her early days with a sense of pride and gratitude. She moved to Mumbai at the age of 18, determined to carve a place for herself.
Just a few years later, she made her acting debut in the 2007 blockbuster Om Shanti Om, opposite Shah Rukh Khan — a role that not only launched her career but also broke conventions by giving a newcomer a powerful double role.
“I was never made to feel like a stranger. Getting such a substantial role as a debutant opposite the country’s biggest superstar was unheard of. Call it destiny or hard work, but I always felt at home,” she said.
Padukone added that the industry, contrary to common perceptions, was warm and accommodating, and she always had control over the essentials — her dedication, discipline, and willingness to learn.
“This World Is Mine”: Shah Rukh Khan on Belonging and Breaking Barriers
Echoing Padukone’s sentiments, Shah Rukh Khan said he never approached Bollywood with the mindset of being an outsider. The Delhi-born actor, often dubbed the “King of Bollywood,” said he always believed the film world was where he belonged.
“I never felt like I didn’t fit in. From the very beginning, everyone embraced me — as if I was a son arriving at Marine Drive,” Khan said, drawing applause from the audience.
He went on to challenge the idea of “insiders vs outsiders,” calling the distinction unproductive and limiting.
“The industry doesn’t care about your background — whether you’re from a film family or not, rich or poor. What matters is how much effort you put in to understand this world and contribute to it with sincerity.”
Reflections on Growth, Simplicity, and Stardom
Now 59, Khan offered a candid glimpse into his younger self. “When I was young, I was brash, overconfident, reckless… but also gutsy. I’m thankful to the younger Shah Rukh for having the courage to take that leap,” he said with a smile.
He described his present-day routine as grounded and introspective. “I’m not someone who overthinks or overworks. When I’m not filming, I’m in a meditative state. That balance is important,” he said.
Padukone also spoke of her personal growth, revealing how running a household and managing everyday chores like sorting mail or checking the vegetable stock bring her joy and peace — a sharp contrast to her high-profile film career.
A Glimpse into the Future: WAVES and Indian Cinema’s Global Vision
Both actors were present at WAVES 2024, a landmark summit aimed at integrating various components of the media and entertainment sector — including film, streaming, gaming, digital media, artificial intelligence, animation, and immersive technologies (AVGC-XR).
The event, held at the Jio World Convention Centre, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and is expected to serve as a major catalyst for the creator economy.
Shah Rukh Khan praised the initiative, saying it was long overdue for India’s entertainment sector to get unified attention.
“For years, we’ve been asking for recognition. WAVES offers a great platform for collaboration, growth, and trade — not just within India but globally,” he said.
Calling for reforms to filmmaking logistics, Khan said the industry must now focus on making India a more accessible hub for both domestic and international projects.
“Every fifth person on this planet is Indian. That tells you how global our stories can be. We need to take our films everywhere. With WAVES, I hope we create an environment that makes filming easier for all,” he said.
He also advocated for broader access to cinema in India, especially in smaller towns. “We need simpler, more affordable theatres across the country.
Today, going to the cinema is becoming a luxury. If we want to reach all Indians, we must make it cheaper and more available — like China, which has thousands of theatres and huge footfall,” he added.
A Warm Bond and a Light-Hearted Moment
The conversation wasn’t without its lighter moments. Khan teased Padukone about her early days on set, saying he treated her kindly because she was “underage” and you don’t scold children.
He also shared a heartfelt comment about her future as a mother, referencing Padukone and husband Ranveer Singh’s upcoming journey into parenthood.
“The best role she’ll play is that of a mother — I think she’ll be wonderful,” he said, referring to their soon-to-arrive daughter Dua.
Padukone concluded by looking back on her journey with a sense of fulfillment. “Moving to a big city at 18, navigating life through trial and error — when I reflect on that now, I think: not bad, well done,” she said.
