In the glittering world of Bollywood, where stardom often creates an invisible wall, Shah Rukh Khan's humility is legendary. However, fellow actor Zeeshan Ayyub, who has worked closely with the superstar, believes Khan's real character is revealed not in grand, public gestures, but in his quiet, consistent respect for those often overlooked on a film set—the doormen and junior artists.
The Real Test of Character: Respect for the Working Class
In a candid conversation on Shubhankar Mishra’s YouTube channel, Zeeshan Ayyub, known for his roles in films like 'Raees' and 'Zero' alongside Shah Rukh Khan, outlined his personal metric for judging a person. "Many stars will come and drop you at the gate, but for me, the real test is how someone treats people who do physical labour for less money," Ayyub stated. He firmly believes that this is the true measure of a human being, and according to him, Shah Rukh Khan passes this test with flying colours every single time.
Zeeshan emphasised that Khan's humility is neither selective nor a performance for the cameras. It is an ingrained part of his nature, extended to everyone around him regardless of their status or role in the industry's hierarchy.
Heartwarming Anecdotes from the Sets of 'Raees' and 'Zero'
Recalling specific instances that left a lasting impression, Zeeshan painted a picture of a superstar mindful of the smallest courtesies. He shared a powerful example: "If he walks out of a door and the doorman opens it for him, even if Shah Rukh is in the middle of a serious conversation, he will stop, turn around, give the doorman his full attention and say thank you." For Ayyub, this simple, deliberate act is a profound sign of greatness.
Another instance highlighted Khan's sense of responsibility. When film shoots extended beyond scheduled hours, Shah Rukh Khan would not take the junior artists' time for granted. Instead of letting an assistant director handle it, he would take personal charge. "If he wants to extend a shoot by half an hour, he will go to the microphone and apologise to the juniors," Zeeshan recounted. "He will ask them politely, 'Please, can you extend the shoot by half an hour?'"
Roots in Upbringing, Not Stardom
Zeeshan Ayyub firmly believes that this behaviour stems from Khan's core values and upbringing, not from his position as a star. He credited Shah Rukh Khan's parents for instilling this mindset of compassion and respect. According to Zeeshan, Khan views any delay or inconvenience caused during work as his own responsibility. Therefore, he feels it is his duty to personally address and seek consent from those affected.
"This sense of responsibility and kindness has nothing to do with stardom and everything to do with values learned early in life," Zeeshan explained. He added that only someone with genuine empathy can consistently think and act in such a considerate manner.
In an industry often critiqued for its stark hierarchies and inflated egos, Zeeshan Ayyub's revelations offer a refreshing glimpse into the authentic personality of one of its biggest icons. These quiet, thoughtful acts of respect towards doormen and junior artists, often invisible to the public eye, truly define the enduring humility of Shah Rukh Khan.
