Shah Rukh Khan, superstar, global icon, and the face of Bollywood for over three decades, completes 33 glorious years in Indian cinema. His journey is nothing short of legendary, marked by iconic characters, genre-defining roles, and a fan following that cuts across continents.
What began as a TV actor’s leap of faith into films with Deewana in 1992 quickly evolved into a full-blown cinematic reign. Over the years, SRK’s characters, romantic, flawed, fearless, and at times, dangerously obsessive, have not only shaped the landscape of Hindi cinema but also built an emotional connection with millions.
Here’s a look at 20 films that played a pivotal role in defining the phenomenon that is Shah Rukh Khan.
Deewana (1992)
SRK’s debut was electric. With just one film, he shattered the mould of the conventional hero and introduced a new kind of intensity to the big screen.
Baazigar (1993)
An anti-hero in a time of clean-cut leads, SRK took a bold risk and won. His performance in this thriller redefined commercial storytelling.
Darr (1993)
“KKKK…Kiran!” remains one of the most chilling lines in Hindi cinema. SRK’s portrayal of a dangerously obsessed lover left a lasting impression.
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)
Raj is eternal. This film made SRK the poster boy of Indian romance, and DDLJ still runs in hearts (and theatres) to this day.
Dil To Pagal Hai (1997)
As Rahul, SRK danced into the musical zone of Bollywood, turning romantic idealism into a full-fledged dream sequence.
Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)
SRK played the layered role of Rahul—friend, father, and reluctant lover—with charm and emotional vulnerability.
Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham… (2001)
In this family epic, SRK brought both grandeur and heart. His scenes with Jaya Bachchan and Kajol remain some of the most moving in the film.
Devdas (2002)
A haunting portrayal of heartbreak and self-destruction. SRK’s turn as Devdas was poetic, indulgent, and unforgettable.
Veer-Zaara (2004)
SRK delivered one of his most tender performances in this Indo-Pak love saga that spanned decades and borders.
Swades (2004)
A departure from his starry persona, SRK’s performance as NASA engineer Mohan Bhargava was nuanced and deeply relatable.
Chak De! India (2007)
As Kabir Khan, SRK moved away from romance and turned in a motivational powerhouse performance that became culturally iconic.
My Name Is Khan (2010)
With restraint and sensitivity, he played Rizwan Khan, a man with Asperger’s on a mission to challenge prejudice.
Chennai Express (2013)
SRK’s impeccable comic timing and flair for massy entertainment were on full display in this blockbuster entertainer.
Jawan (2023)
A double role in a slick action setup, SRK showed he can still command the screen like few others can. The film was a massive theatrical success.
Fan (2016)
SRK took a risk here, playing both a superstar and his obsessive admirer. The result was one of his most layered, underrated performances.
Dil Se (1998)
A love story set against political turmoil, Dil Se was intense and lyrical. SRK’s haunting portrayal of Amar elevated this Mani Ratnam classic.
Don (2006)
Cool, calculated, and menacing, SRK gave Don a whole new identity while honouring the legacy of the original.
Dear Zindagi (2016)
As Dr. Jehangir, SRK brought a calming presence and emotional wisdom to the screen in a quietly brilliant performance.
Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi (2008)
Duality at its best. SRK effortlessly moved between the shy Surinder and flamboyant Raj, making both characters equally lovable.
Raees (2017)
This gritty gangster film gave SRK a morally grey space to explore, and he delivered with conviction and style.
The Reign Continues
Even after three decades, SRK remains one of India’s most relevant stars, constantly reinventing himself while staying rooted in his signature charm. From romantic classics to action-packed thrillers, his filmography continues to evolve—and so does his fanbase.
Here’s to 33 years of Shah Rukh Khan—and the many more films, moments, and memories to come.
(Also read: 33 Years of Shah Rukh Khan: Fans Across The Globe Celebrate the King of Bollywood And Superstardom Of Shah Rukh )
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