16 years of ‘My Name Is Khan’: A film ahead of its time, and why the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer still matters today

Sixteen years ago, superstar Shah Rukh Khan’s ‘My Name Is Khan’ arrived in theatres and quietly reshaped the meaning of superstardom. Released in 2010 and directed by Karan Johar, the film remains one of the most powerful cinematic chapters in SRK’s illustrious career.

At a time when SRK was celebrated globally as the ‘King of Romance’, he chose to step away from the comfort of larger-than-life charm and play Rizwan Khan — a man with Asperger’s syndrome navigating a world fractured by prejudice in post-9/11 America. It was a performance built not on dramatic flair, but on restraint. No exaggerated heroism. No slow-motion swagger. Just vulnerability, honesty, and quiet courage.

“My name is Khan, and I am not a terrorist.”

That single line became more than dialogue. Through Rizwan’s cross-country journey to meet the US President, the film told a deeply human story about love, loss, faith, and resilience.

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Shah Rukh Khan’s portrayal was layered and meticulous. From body language and speech patterns to emotional pauses, he immersed himself completely in the character. Critics across the world praised his nuanced performance, and audiences connected with Rizwan’s innocence and determination. It was SRK not as a superstar, but as a storyteller.

Landmark In Indian Cinema

The film was also a landmark in Indian cinema’s global reach. It performed strongly overseas, particularly in international markets, proving that Hindi cinema could carry socially relevant narratives beyond borders. Kajol’s powerful performance as Mandira added emotional gravitas, while Karan Johar delivered one of the most mature films of his career.

Sixteen years later, My Name Is Khan continues to resonate. In an era still grappling with identity, bias, and division, Rizwan Khan’s journey feels timeless. The film stands as a reminder that Shah Rukh Khan’s greatest strength has never just been romance or charisma, it has been empathy.