For old timers weaned on the acting forte of stalwarts like Ashok Kumar and Balraj Sahani to versatile artists of the 80s of likes of Naseer Shah, Om Puri, Pankaj Kapoor, Sanjeev Kumar and in the later decades, Irrfan Khan and Manoj Bajpayee had set such high standards, that the imagery of an eternal romantic with signature ‘arms-wide’ stance of King Khan was never our ‘cup of chai’ though it still appeals to millions across the globe !
Having said that, SRK’s not just a huge Bollywood super-star but also a cultivated sophisticate and self-styled eloquent ‘man of letters’ who never misses to woo his audiences anywhere with his irresistible wit and charm and his innate ability to win hearts of one and all with disarming humility. On stage, he casts pearls of wisdom & humour swaying people of all ages.
Apart from legendary actor status & iconic acting career of many decades, that’s received a huge boost with mega hits “Pathan’ and ‘Jawan’ last year, SRK’s stellar role as the large-hearted, sporting team-owner of the popular IPL team ‘Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) who takes active interest in their fortunes without hogging limelight from the players, brings another facet. SRK dons many hats, what’s getting revealed are his leadership qualities.
When his IPL team wins big against good opponents, its only human that he rejoices with all the players with warm hugs in his own imitable style and a special pat for those who excelled.However, unlike others, he mixes with the same joyful camaraderie with the opposing team players, many of whom are in awe of him. In yesterday’s match against DC, their Captain Rishabh Pant played a valiant innings but his team lost by a huge margin.Post-match he was sitting forlorn on the field. SRK walked to him, didn’t allow him to stand up and consoled him that this was just a one-off thing.
We often wonder why only some ‘Extra-ordinary’ gifted people become so popular & loved, despite their weaknesses and failures that often happen. They have that ‘Extra’ (X factor !) that sets them apart from the ordinary.The SRK brand is strong but for players it’s his hug that’s so momentous !
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