Mumbai, January 3, 2025: Shah Rukh Khan, the undisputed “King of Bollywood,” has admitted his regret over passing up the lead role in the blockbuster film Pushpa: The Rule. The candid confession came during a lively exchange at the IIFA Awards, leaving fans and industry insiders buzzing with excitement and curiosity.
The Phenomenon of Pushpa
Allu Arjun’s Pushpa: The Rule has been a seismic event in the cinematic world. Released late last year, the film has shattered records, crossing the ₹1000 crore mark within a week of its release. Its gritty narrative, pulsating action sequences, and Arjun’s charismatic portrayal of Pushpa Raj have cemented its place as one of the most successful Indian films of all time.
Amidst the film’s meteoric success, Shah Rukh Khan’s revelation about rejecting the role has become a talking point. Fans are now speculating about how the iconic actor could have brought his signature flair to the character that has become synonymous with Allu Arjun.
A Moment of Truth
During the IIFA Awards, Shah Rukh co-hosted alongside Vicky Kaushal, sharing candid and humorous moments on stage. The conversation took an unexpected turn when Kaushal revealed that he had once been offered the lead in Laal Singh Chaddha before Aamir Khan. Responding to this, Shah Rukh quipped, “Aamir shouldn’t have done that film either,” prompting laughter from the audience.
However, the mood shifted when the topic of Pushpa surfaced. Shah Rukh, with a mix of humor and genuine emotion, confessed, “Don’t touch my pain. I really wanted to act in Pushpa, but I don’t have the personality and attitude like Allu Arjun.”
Fans of both Shah Rukh Khan and Pushpa are now left to imagine how Bollywood’s Badshah would have interpreted the rugged and rebellious character of Pushpa Raj. Khan’s previous performance in Raees, where he played a charismatic outlaw, has some parallels to Pushpa’s persona, but even Shah Rukh acknowledged that Allu Arjun’s magnetic style made the role unforgettable.
A Missed Opportunity or a Perfect Fit?
While Shah Rukh’s regret is palpable, many believe that Allu Arjun was born to play Pushpa. His unmatched swagger, nuanced performance, and raw energy have elevated the character to legendary status. Yet, Shah Rukh’s acknowledgment adds a layer of intrigue to the film’s legacy and raises the age-old question of “What if?”
Conclusion: A Lesson in Choices
Shah Rukh Khan’s candid moment at IIFA serves as a reminder that even megastars have their share of professional what-ifs. While his fans continue to dream of what Pushpa with King Khan might have looked like, the actor’s humility and praise for Allu Arjun reflect his enduring charm and respect for the craft.
