‘What matters is how you stand your ground’: SRK on insider-outsider debate
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, known for his sharp wit and eloquence, shared a rare perspective on the insider-outsider discourse in the film industry during his appearance at the WAVES 2025 Summit in Mumbai yesterday.
The actor was speaking at a panel titled "The Journey: From Outsider to Ruler", joined by actress Deepika Padukone and moderated by filmmaker Karan Johar.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. Despite lacking a film industry background, Shah Rukh has long been celebrated as one of Bollywood's most iconic figures.
Addressing the much-discussed insider-outsider narrative, Shah Rukh said, "I do take issue with this distinction. I don't think it's relevant where one comes from. What truly matters is the strength with which you hold your ground in the world you wish to be a part of—whether it's films, politics, or business."
He also reflected on commonly used words such as ambition and struggle. "Terms like hunger and hard work often get romanticised. People say, 'I was very hungry, I worked very hard,' but these are lofty words," he remarked.
Sharing his own experience, Shah Rukh added that the film industry welcomed him wholeheartedly, making him feel at home. "I was embraced with open arms. That's why I believe—this is my world, and this is my industry," he said.
The WAVES 2025 Summit, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has drawn a host of prominent names including Rajinikanth, Mohanlal, Chiranjeevi, Aamir Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Allu Arjun, Anil Kapoor, Hema Malini, Saif Ali Khan, and Shahid Kapoor.
The event, taking place in Mumbai, will run through the weekend and conclude on May 4.
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