HBD Shah Rukh Khan: This is why SRK left dark roles and became the ‘King of Romance’

Before he became Bollywood’s ultimate romantic hero, Shah Rukh Khan was the face of fear, obsession, and intensity. In the early 1990s, SRK dared to tread where few leading men would master the art of playing dark, complex, and morally grey characters. 

Whether it was the vengeful lover in Baazigar (1993), the obsessive stalker in Darr (1993), or the brooding avenger in Anjaam (1994), Khan brought a magnetic charm to characters that were anything but heroic.

 His fearless choice to play anti-heroes at the start of his career not only broke stereotypes but also established him as one of Indian cinema’s most versatile and daring performers.

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When asked by Karan Johar whether he was cautious about his on-screen image, Shah Rukh candidly replied, “I don’t like to use bad language in films. Before I had kids, I was more relaxed. But now, I think a lot about what I do. There are things I just shouldn’t portray anymore.”

A Softer Side of the Superstar

He admitted that parenthood made him more sensitive about the kind of stories he told. “I don’t like dark films. I don’t want to play very mean characters. I like movies to be pleasant, to show something good,” he said. Yet, he also believed that creativity shouldn’t be censored, adding, “Banning smoking or drinking on screen isn’t a great idea. That’s narrow-minded.”

Evolving with Time

Today, Shah Rukh continues to rule hearts from Pathaan and Jawan to his upcoming film King, which also stars his daughter Suhana Khan. From his early days as a fearless anti-hero to now being a thoughtful father and global superstar, SRK’s evolution mirrors his belief that true greatness lies not just in fame, but in growth.

And perhaps, that’s what makes him the King on and off screen.