Social media is important to different people for various reasons. I never thought because of one person who holds a special place in my heart, social media could become a huge part of my life. But, the fact is that these platforms provide me with the unique opportunity to stay connected with this special someone who has had a great impact on my behavior, thoughts, and even how I choose to face life during tough times. Shahrukh Khan, "The Badshah" has inspired and captivated me for years and will do it forever.
Sharukh and I: united by social media
My social media feed this week has been a captivating symphony of Shah Rukh Khan. It's not merely a feed; it's a vivid tapestry of emotions woven into every video. There's the happiness of celebrating his career highlights and appreciating his lasting legacy. Inspiration flows through every frame as I witness the humility and determination that define his journey, motivating me to fall in love with life again. But when I see fortunate people sharing photos of their treasured times with SRK, I can't help but feel jealous. It's a tinge of longing to be in their shoes, to experience the magic of meeting the man who has touched my heart and built a Mannat inside it.
Social media platforms, intertwined with his presence, are more than just entertainment channels. They keep me connected with a personality I deeply admire and they allow me to explore his world in a way that would have been unimaginable in the past.
I would be like a book without my favorite SRK chapter if I didn't have social media. I would no longer receive my daily dosage of joy and inspiration. Social media paints a vivid picture of his world, and I get a front-row seat. One significant moment that will last forever with me is the amount of happiness I get when I see him dance on ‘Chaiya Chaiya’. I see him dance to this song everywhere.
Social media sites like Spotify, YouTube, and Instagram remind me that in today's interconnected world, social media can bridge the gap between idols and admirers, creating a sense of closeness and community that is truly special. Even though SRK is in Bandra and I’m in Pune, I feel like he is next to me and together we are celebrating happiness.
Instagram: helping me connect with SRK
Of the social media platforms I use, Instagram is one of my top choices, like my little escape. It serves as a window into his world. I can access his life through Instagram in a manner that would not have been feasible without it. SRK's personal life has been abundantly revealed on Instagram, where fans can see candid behind-the-scenes photos that give me a sense of being a part of his world, as well as heartwarming moments with his family and co-actors. For instance, while he was shooting the “Zinda Banda" song in Jawaan there were some lovely behind-the-scenes shots. One of them was SRK learning the song lyrics from the movie so that he could say the words in Tamil when he was dancing. In those scenes he was behaving like a normal gentle ordinary man, not being hesitant to approach, dancing effortlessly and gracefully. His co-workers say that it was lovely working with SRK and the director (Atlee) gave him a hug for giving him the moment of a lifetime.
There was a famous video that was heart-touching to witness - SRK’s gentlemanly behavior during the "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai'' premiere. He was quite kind to Rani Mukerji, helping her with her saree so she could walk easily. I think these kind and sweet gestures from him always make me melt. Whenever he does such things I tell myself, “Kuch kuch hota hai ShahRukh, tum nahi samjhoge.”
Instagram shines when it transports me into the fascinating world of Shah Rukh Khan's films. Scenes from films like 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham', 'Kal Ho Naa Ho', 'Mohabbatein', 'Chennai Express', 'Om Shanti Om' and 'Fan' have taken me on a journey across the world of cinema. These films are simply a small portion of his almost ninety films, all of which are masterpieces and have helped to establish his legendary reputation. His adaptability as an actor and his capacity to move between parts and genres with ease is shown by the shorts and clips posted on Instagram. He has left a lasting impression on Indian film. Instagram brings me this joy and inspiration every day.
For instance, recently, when the stress of college applications weighed on me, I remembered his advice in Dear Zindagi: "Don't let the past blackmail your present to ruin a beautiful future." This became my mantra, erasing my fear and building confidence about my future. I am also learning how to give witty and savage replies to people who discourage me.
Another one of his videos has my complete heart. It has made me set very high standards for myself taking inspiration from my love guru SRK. This scene is from My Name is Khan, where Shah Rukh Khan's character eloquently captures the essence of devotion and love. In the scene, SRK asks Kajol if she can marry him. Kajol asks him to take them to a place that she has never seen. Then one fine morning he surprises her by showing the most beautiful sight: clouds soaring above the great skyscrapers of the city. “Will you marry me,” Kajol asks. I think only SRK can create such magical moments on-screen and off-screen.
For me, these 30-second videos of his hold the same value as a 3 hour movie. When I watch him for those 30 seconds, I become utterly speechless and my fingers urge me to scroll down to view more of his videos. All I can say is, “Woh sirf star nahi hai, duniya hai meri.”
YouTube: Giving me a window to his life
Another beloved social media platform that helps me connect with him even more is YouTube. Here, I can watch his interviews, speeches, and behind-the-scenes moments from his movies. It's like having a one-on-one conversation with him, even though it's through a screen. One of his videos, ‘Breakfast to Dinner with Shahrukh Khan- Inside Mannat by Garima Kumar’ showed me snippets of SRK’s work ethic, philosophy, and charm. For me, the biggest takeaway was that engaging in activities that you're passionate about brings you happiness, and you're willing to put in the necessary hard work to achieve your goals.
SRK’s videos have taught me a lot about kindness, perseverance, and the strength of self-belief. His journey from portraying a serial character in 'Circus' to becoming the 'King of Bollywood' is nothing short of inspiring. The value of self-belief is one important thing I've learned. The life of Shah Rukh Khan is a vivid example of how having confidence in oneself is the first step toward success. I admire his personality and always look forward to being like him.
I’m not the only SRK fangirl I know. One of my teachers Ms. Sushimita says, “I loved how candid Shah Rukh is during his interviews. It's so rare and unique. Being a part of the wider network of Shah Rukh fans has helped me connect with a lot of very independent and strong women. I remember talking to an acquaintance about being an SRK fan. This helped in establishing the foundation of our relationship. We've been great friends since that day!” (The acquaintance she mentions here is me!)
I asked her how she would feel if she ever met SRK. She would be mesmerized.
“I'd probably ask him about how he feels about Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’s 25th anniversary, and if he thought it would be the way it is now?”
To Shah Rukh Khan, the King of Hearts, from a devoted fan, whose entire universe revolves around your charisma and charm.
“Pyaar toh bahut log karte hai … lekin mere jaisa pyar koi nahi kar sakta kyun ki kisi ke paas tum jo nahi ho.”
I really mean it.
“Sachchi mohabbat ko pehchanne ke liye aankhon ki nahi…dil ki zaroorat hoti hai”
Aur my dil is awaiting you.
“Yaad rakhna ki duniya ke kisi kone mein koi khush hai, kyun ki tum khush ho”
I am one of them. When I see you my world lights up
“Main aaj bhi usse utni hi mohabbat karta hoon…aur isliye nahi ki koi aur nahi mili…par isliye ki usse mohabbat karne se fursat hi nahi milti”
Aur kabhi nahi milti hai fursat kyuki hum hain immersed in your love.
You're not just a superstar; you're the symbol of dreams, inspiration, and pure magic. I hope your day is as charming as your films, as radiant as your smile, and as full of love as the hearts of your admirers.
Written by Sindhupriya Gaddam
Comments