Growing up in a small town in Rajasthan, actor-producer Sohum Shah, like countless others, dreamed of following in the footsteps of Bollywood’s biggest stars. While his desire to become the next Shah Rukh Khan has evolved over time, his respect for the iconic trio—Shah Rukh, Salman, and Aamir Khan—remains stronger than ever. Today, Shah views these three megastars as his mentors, each imparting valuable lessons that have shaped his career in the film industry.
The Influence of Bollywood’s Biggest Stars
In a candid conversation with PTI editors at the news agency’s headquarters in New Delhi, Sohum Shah reflected on the significant impact the trio of Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan has had on his career. The actor, known for his versatility in films like Tumbbad and Ship of Theseus, referred to the Khans as “the last of the superstars” in Hindi cinema.
“I’ve learned so much from them,” he said, noting that each of the actors has contributed something unique to his personal and professional growth. While Shah Rukh Khan’s charisma has been an inspiration, Salman Khan’s fashion sense and Aamir Khan’s work ethic have also deeply influenced him.
Lessons from His ‘Three Gurus’
Sohum Shah’s admiration for each of the Khans stems from different aspects of their personalities and careers. “Shah Rukh Khan taught me the power of charm and connecting with an audience. He’s someone who can light up a room just by being himself,” said Shah, emphasizing the importance of personal magnetism.
Salman Khan, on the other hand, left an impression with his sartorial choices. “Salman Bhai’s style is iconic, and he carries himself with so much confidence,” Sohum added, explaining how he adopted elements of Salman’s unique fashion sense to create his own on-screen presence.
And then there’s Aamir Khan, whom Sohum Shah praises for his unwavering dedication and work ethic. “Aamir Khan’s perfectionism and commitment to his craft are things that I strive to achieve in my own career. He doesn’t compromise on quality, and that’s something I really respect,” he said.
Carving Out His Own Path in Cinema
While Sohum Shah has learned invaluable lessons from these three Bollywood giants, he’s also determined to forge his own path in the film industry. “The admiration is there, but I want to travel a journey all my own,” he stated confidently.
Shah’s recent projects, including the critically acclaimed Tumbbad, showcase his willingness to experiment with unique and unconventional narratives. Unlike the commercial routes often taken by the Khans, Sohum has gravitated toward films that challenge traditional Bollywood storytelling.
The Last of the Superstars
Sohum Shah believes that Shah Rukh, Salman, and Aamir Khan represent the “last of the superstars” in the world of Hindi cinema. Their enduring popularity, decades-long dominance, and the sheer magnitude of their fan base are phenomena that, according to him, are unlikely to be replicated.
“They are icons who transcended the barriers of time and continue to be relevant across generations. They have set the bar incredibly high,” said Shah, concluding his thoughts on the legendary trio.
Conclusion
For Sohum Shah, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan aren’t just stars to be idolized; they are mentors whose careers have guided him in his own cinematic journey. By combining the charm, style, and work ethic of his ‘three gurus,’ Shah continues to create his own identity in Bollywood, one that is both inspired by the legends and uniquely his own.