Me with Shah Rukh Khan at the Chennai Express launch
There are moments in life which simply do astound you and remind you of why you are doing what you are. When i said at the age of 12 that i wanted to become a writer, my parents were shocked. Their immediate and very Asian response was 'your science grades are fantastic, why not become a doctor?'. At that time, i pointed at my latest issue of Filmfare (Indian Bollywood magazine) with Shah Rukh Khan plastered on the front and said 'I want to meet him!' It may sound a little cringeworthy to admit now but i was more than obsessed with him as a child and still adore him to this day. It is not because i think i am in love with him, though at some point i think i was, it is because he represented escapism and a chance for a future that i never thought i would have at such a young age. Becoming a journalist meant that at least i would be one step closer to meeting him and getting close to having that dream coming true.
Yesterday, i met Shah Rukh Khan and it was brilliant. I have probably read every interview where he has been mentioned and every person comments on how humble and generous he comes across and i got to see it for myself. He was so honest about the reflection of himself and spoke humbly about his success. For someone who is so internationally renowned, it was fascinating to see someone so self reflective and without any airs or graces. He wanted to ensure that he got his point across but without any dramatics, he spoke clearly and concisely. I riled up the courage at the end to ask for a picture and he agreed. A great man, not because of the fact he is a celebrity, but the fact he has kept his values and his honesty. I am glad that i was not disappointed after meeting someone i admire so much and Mr Khan, you still have a devoted fan in me.
Watch out for my interview with the man himself on BizAsia: http://www.media247.co.uk/showbiz/
