In a recent interview, actress Girija Oak has shared touching stories from the sets of the blockbuster film Jawan, painting a picture of superstar Shah Rukh Khan that goes far beyond his on-screen charisma. Her anecdotes highlight his exceptional humility, consideration for the crew, and a deep sense of responsibility that left a lasting impression on everyone present.
"I Am Really Sorry": A Superstar's Apology
Girija Oak, in a conversation with Hautterfly, recalled a specific incident that showcased Shah Rukh Khan's grounded nature. During a long and demanding shoot day, which was already running behind schedule, Khan made a minor error while delivering his dialogue. Instead of brushing it off, his immediate reaction was one of accountability.
He promptly apologised to every single person on set, starting with the junior-most members. "Because of me, you’ll have to do one more take... sorry," he said, acknowledging that his mistake meant extra work for the entire team. Girija emphasised that a star of his monumental stature had no obligation to offer such an apology, yet he did so genuinely, understanding the ripple effect of a retake.
Battling the Cold for the Perfect Shot
Oak also shed light on the physically challenging conditions during the Jawan shoot. To accommodate Shah Rukh Khan, who was wearing a wig for his role, the set temperature had to be maintained at an unusually low level. This was necessary to prevent him from sweating under the prosthetic, which could ruin the shot continuity.
This meant the rest of the cast and crew were often freezing. Girija described the routine: everyone would bundle up in jackets between setups, only to shed them moments before the camera rolled. The dialogue error and subsequent retake happened in this already uncomfortable, chilly environment. Despite the cold and the delay, Khan once again looked at everyone and sincerely said, "I am really sorry," underlining his sensitivity towards his colleagues' discomfort.
Guardian Angel in Chennai: Ensuring Safety
The actress shared another instance that demonstrated Khan's care extending far beyond professional courtesy. While filming in Chennai, the team was heading out to celebrate director Atlee's birthday. When Shah Rukh Khan inquired about how his female co-actors were travelling and learned they were taking a production car, he immediately took proactive steps for their security.
He arranged for one vehicle from his own security convoy to escort them all the way to the hotel. His personal guards stayed with Girija and the others until they safely entered the hotel lift, wishing them good night only after confirming their security. This act of thoughtfulness, away from the cameras, left a profound impact on Oak.
Summarising her experience, Girija Oak called Shah Rukh Khan "deeply humane," noting that he is always consciously aware of everyone he works with and treats each person on set with consistent respect. These revelations offer fans a rare glimpse into the character of the megastar, proving that his real-life persona is as admirable as his cinematic ones.
