In a recent candid interview, actress Amrita Rao opened up about a career-defining piece of advice she received from none other than Shah Rukh Khan. The two shared screen space more than two decades ago in the beloved 2004 film, Main Hoon Na, directed by Farah Khan. According to Rao, the words of the Bollywood superstar have guided her career choices ever since.
During a chat on Ranveer Allahbadia’s podcast, Amrita shared a touching memory from the film’s set. She revealed that during a break in the Main Hoon Na schedule, Shah Rukh Khan, who was busy with another film, took the time to call her and her mother to meet with him. During their conversation, he showered her with praise, telling her she possessed the qualities of a true superstar.
Shah Rukh’s advice wasn’t just about encouragement; it was a lesson in artistic selectivity. Amrita recalled his exact words, which she said she still follows to this day: “He said something very nice that 200 filmein aayengi, par humein sirf do filmein karni hai. Aur fir usmein se vo ek film ho that people are waiting for.” (He told me I will be offered 200 films, but I must sign only two in the hope that one of them is the one people are waiting for.) This philosophy, she explained, has been her guiding light, motivating her to be highly selective in her career choices.
Beyond the career advice, Amrita also spoke about the legendary actor’s thoughtful and focused approach on set. She noted that Shah Rukh was exceptionally observant, always sensing the nervous energy of newcomers and making them feel at ease. He had a unique temperament that pushed for perfection in the very first take. “Every time the first take was the best take, there were no second takes because his temperament was like second take dena hi nahi hai (don’t ask for a second take), be so focused ki second take dena hi naa pade (ensure you don’t need to),” she shared, highlighting his dedication and professionalism.
On the work front, Shah Rukh Khan had a phenomenal 2023 with the blockbusters Pathaan, Jawan, and Dunki. He has since been filming for Siddharth Anand’s upcoming movie, King, which also features his daughter Suhana Khan. Shah Rukh Khan was recently honored with his first-ever National Award for Best Actor for his performance in Jawan. Amrita Rao was most recently seen in Jolly LLB 3, where she appeared alongside Akshay Kumar, Arshad Warsi, and Huma Qureshi.