Farah Khan Recalls Shah Rukh Khan's Trust in Her Casting Decisions, Criticizes Today's Actors

Filmmaker and choreographer Farah Khan recently spoke about the changing dynamics of the film industry and how actors today are increasingly involved in different aspects of filmmaking. During an appearance on Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi's Double Date, Farah contrasted this approach with her experience of working with Shah Rukh Khan, recalling how the superstar trusted her creative decisions without questioning her choices.

Recalling the casting process for Main Hoon Na, Farah revealed that Shah Rukh did not interfere when she decided to cast Sushmita Sen in the film. She also spoke about how he trusted her when she suggested casting a newcomer for Om Shanti Om.

“Shah Rukh Khan never interfered with anything regarding casting. When I said Sushmita Sen will do Main Hoon Na, she was not so big at that time. Any big heroine would have said yes, but he said nothing. I said I wanted a new girl for Om Shanti Om, and I showed him a picture. He said, ‘If you feel so, go ahead,’” she said.

Sharing her observations about the current generation of actors, Farah said many are keen to participate in departments beyond their primary responsibilities, including choreography, music, and casting. She felt that this could stem from a lack of confidence in their own abilities.

“In today’s actors, nobody has confidence. They want to interfere everywhere. They want to do the choreography themselves, interfere in the music, direct the film themselves and interfere in casting. That comes when you are not confident about yourself. You have to trust everyone,” she said.

Farah also commented on the importance some actors place on external recognition, including magazine covers and awards, before concentrating on their performances.

“Aaj kal unhein magazine ke cover pe aana hai aur award chahiye, pehle picture toh dhang se kar lo,” she remarked, suggesting that actors should focus on their work before seeking recognition.

Emphasising the importance of confidence and dedication, Farah cited several established Bollywood stars who continue to put in the effort despite their success. She named Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, and Akshay Kumar as examples.

“You should believe in yourself. Shah Rukh works harder, Amitabh Bachchan is working so hard on Kaun Banega Crorepati, Salman Khan works every day. Akshay works every day and keeps everyone on their toes,” she said.

She further suggested that actors sometimes find themselves surrounded by people who reinforce their opinions rather than challenge them.

“They think they know it all. They are surrounded by people who make them think they know it all,” Farah added.

During the conversation, Angad Bedi remarked that the era of the superstar was over. Agreeing with him, Farah said, “Yes, we had the last of them. Enjoy them.”