At the 77th Locarno Film Festival, Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan captivated audiences not just with his star power but also with heartfelt reflections on his career and personal life. In an engaging discussion with Giona A Nazzaro, the festival’s artistic director, Khan delved into his admiration for Jackie Chan and shared personal anecdotes that charmed the crowd.
Khan, who has often cited Jackie Chan as one of his greatest influences, took a moment to reminisce about the impact the martial arts legend has had on him. “Jackie Chan has always been one of my top favorite actors,” Khan revealed. “He’s not only incredibly talented and physically gifted but also brings so much humor and authenticity to his roles. When my son Aryan was born, I couldn’t help but think he resembled Jackie Chan in some way.”
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The conversation turned nostalgic as Khan recounted a memorable encounter with Chan. “A few years ago, I had the honor of meeting Jackie Chan in Saudi Arabia,” Khan shared. “He was exactly as I had imagined – humble and kind-hearted. It was an unforgettable experience.”
In a light-hearted moment, Khan also hinted at a fun collaboration idea with Chan, saying, “If Jackie Chan ever sees this interview, I promised him I’d open a Chinese restaurant with him.” This playful comment brought smiles and laughter to the audience.
August 10 marked a historic occasion for Shah Rukh Khan as he was awarded the Pardo alla Carriera, or Career Leopard, making him the first Indian to receive this prestigious honor at the Locarno Film Festival. The accolade, celebrating a lifetime of achievement in film, was a testament to Khan’s enduring influence and popularity in cinema.
Khan made a striking impression at the festival, sporting a sleek black blazer and trousers that accentuated his dashing appearance. His long hair added a touch of his signature style, making him the center of attention as he engaged with fans and attendees.
During his speech, Khan expressed his gratitude for the warm reception he received. “Thank you all for welcoming me with such open arms – even wider than the ones I use on screen,” he joked, referencing his iconic open-armed pose that has become a hallmark of his on-screen persona.
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The discussion also included a behind-the-scenes look at Khan’s famous pose. He explained its origins with a mix of humor and humility. “The famous pose wasn’t planned. Back in the day, we used to have a dance move called the ‘dip’ in our choreography. I was struggling with it, and a choreographer suggested I just stretch my arms instead. And that’s how it all started,” he explained with a smile.
The festival’s social media channels were soon filled with pictures and videos of Khan, capturing the excitement and admiration he generated. His appearance and speech not only celebrated his career but also highlighted his ability to connect with audiences in a deeply personal way.
As the festival concluded, Shah Rukh Khan’s presence and stories left an indelible mark, further solidifying his status as a global cinematic icon.