Anubhav Sinha Hails Shah Rukh Khan as Architect of Bollywood Chivalry
In a recent interview, acclaimed filmmaker Anubhav Sinha, currently immersed in promoting his upcoming courtroom drama 'Assi', showered praise on Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan. Sinha, who previously collaborated with Khan on the 2011 superhero film 'Ra.One', attributed the very culture of chivalry in the Indian film industry to the actor's influential conduct.
SRK's Gentlemanly Acts Set a New Standard
Speaking to Hindustan Times, Sinha reflected on how stars can drive societal change. "Before Shah Rukh Khan became the star that he is, I never saw a hero run down the steps to give the lady a hand to climb up. I never saw an actor do that," Sinha revealed. He emphasized that Khan's actions were not merely personal gestures but sparked a broader behavioral shift.
The director elaborated, stating that SRK essentially established a new code of conduct. "That is such aspirational conduct that now, you see it very often. Now, that’s a change. People are opening doors for women. Shah Rukh Khan is single-handedly responsible for this chivalry," Sinha asserted, highlighting the actor's profound impact on industry norms.
A Legacy of Respect: SRK's Credit Sequence Decision
Sinha's admiration extends beyond on-set behavior. He pointed to Khan's 2018 decision to prioritize female leads in film credits as another example of his progressive mindset. Since that year, the superstar has consistently ensured that the names of his female co-stars appear first in the credits, a practice he has maintained to promote gender equality.
Reflecting on this, Sinha shared an optimistic view on change: "So, change is not that difficult an entity. Keep doing the right things. Change happens in so many ways." This statement underscores his belief in the power of consistent, positive actions to transform cultural landscapes.
Revisiting the 'Ra.One' Collaboration
The bond between Sinha and Khan was forged during the making of 'Ra.One', an ambitious superhero project directed by Sinha. The film, starring Shah Rukh Khan, Kareena Kapoor, and Arjun Rampal in lead roles, achieved moderate box office success upon release. Over time, however, it has garnered a cult following, largely due to its pioneering visual effects and innovative storytelling in Indian cinema.
Anubhav Sinha's Upcoming Venture: 'Assi'
Turning to his current work, Sinha's film 'Assi' is poised for release on February 20, 2026. The movie features Taapsee Pannu as a lawyer battling a brutal rape case, with Kani Kusruti portraying the victim. The ensemble cast includes notable actors such as:
- Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub
- Manoj Pahwa
- Kumud Mishra
- Supriya Pathak
Additionally, Naseeruddin Shah and Divya Dutta are set to make special appearances, adding depth to this highly anticipated project. Sinha's focus on socially relevant themes continues with 'Assi', aligning with his appreciation for figures like Shah Rukh Khan who use their platform for positive influence.
