Islamabad, 3 November, 2026 (Nosheen): Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who is celebrating his 61st birthday, has established himself as one of the most successful and influential actors in Indian cinema, earning the title of ‘King Khan’ through a remarkable career spanning nearly four decades. During the 1990s, as the film industry searched for a successor to Amitabh Bachchan, three major stars emerged: Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Aamir Khan. Although all three entered the industry around the same period and achieved remarkable success, Shah Rukh gradually carved out a distinct identity and became one of Bollywood’s biggest global icons. According to Indian news channel NDTV, Shah Rukh Khan’s films have generated approximately Rs80 billion in worldwide box office revenue, reflecting his extraordinary popularity in both domestic and international markets. Shah Rukh made his film debut in 1992, when Salman and Aamir had already begun establishing themselves. He initially appeared in films such as Deewana and King Uncle, while also gaining attention for his negative roles in Darr and Anjaam. His versatility and screen presence quickly helped him emerge as a leading star. Between 2000 and 2007, Shah Rukh experienced the golden period of his career, delivering major box office successes including Mohabbatein, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Devdas, Kal Ho Naa Ho, Veer-Zaara and Om Shanti Om. His films reportedly earned more than Rs13.26 billion during this period, surpassing the combined box office earnings of Salman and Aamir Khan. The Bollywood landscape began changing after 2008, when Aamir Khan’s Ghajini helped popularise the Rs100-crore box office club, while Salman Khan entered a new phase of commercial success with Wanted and Dabangg. During the following years, the three superstars remained major box office competitors. Shah Rukh delivered hits such as Chennai Express and Happy New Year, while Salman and Aamir also achieved significant commercial and cultural success. After 2015, Shah Rukh faced a relatively challenging phase, with films such as Dilwale and Raees performing well but failing to match his earlier level of success. Meanwhile, Aamir dominated the box office with Dangal, while Salman enjoyed major hits with Sultan and Bajrangi Bhaijaan. Despite changing trends and intense competition, Shah Rukh Khan’s enduring popularity, international recognition and contribution to Indian cinema have secured his position among Bollywood’s most celebrated superstars.