Sunil Pal on Shah Rukh Khan: The Actor Would Visit His Employee in Slums
Updated on: 06 June, 2024 12:23 PM IST |Amruta Karulkar
From Slum Visits to Stage Introductions: Sunil Pal Recalls Heartwarming Encounters with Bollywood Stars
Veteran comedian Sunil Pal has brought to light a heartwarming story about Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan`s genuine care for his staff. In a recent interview, Pal revealed that Khan used to make quiet visits to the slums where a staff member resided.
This anecdote highlights Khan`s grounded nature and his willingness to go the extra mile for his employees, treating them like family. It`s a stark contrast to the larger-than-life persona he portrays on screen.
Pal`s interview also sheds light on another instance showcasing Khan`s respect for fellow artists. During a Singapore tour, Pal performed for a stadium audience that included Khan himself. "The Morani brothers had arranged a tour for me in Singapore, where I was paid Rs. 20,000," Pal recalled. "After the show, Shah Rukh Khan introduced every performer, including me, to the audience. Ganesh Hegde even invited me to perform for him in the green room."
Pal described encountering Khan in the green room, cigarette and drink in hand. He then proceeded to mimic Khan`s famous dialogues, much to the star`s amusement. This lighthearted interaction not only showcases Khan`s appreciation for humour but also his ability to connect with people on a personal level.
Also Read: Sanjay Leela Bhansali Says Today`s Actors Can`t Do What Shah Rukh Khan Did In Devdas
"Before the tour, I was told that Aamir would personally audition all performers," Pal said. "Apparently, nothing went ahead without his approval." Thankfully, Aamir`s focus was on building confidence rather than mere evaluation. " Ashutosh Gowariker introduced me to Aamir, and I did my act. What struck me most was how Aamir concentrated on boosting my confidence, not on accepting or rejecting me. Thankfully, he laughed at my first joke and agreed to have me on the tour."
Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan to Play Don for His Next Film King Alongside Daughter Suhana Khan
Pal concluded by commending both Khan and Khan for their respect for artists and their craft. "These superstars appreciate artists and what we do," he said. "That`s why they`re so humble and down-to-earth. In fact, Aamir wouldn`t even hesitate to sit on the floor and chat casually during discussions."
Sunil Pal`s anecdotes offer a glimpse into the human side of Bollywood`s biggest stars. They paint a picture of Shah Rukh Khan as a considerate employer and Aamir Khan as a supportive collaborator, both devoid of the arrogance often associated with celebrity status.
Comedian Sunil Pal reveals this heartwarming tidbit about Shah Rukh Khan
"Shah Rukh`s staff member, Subhash (who is no longer with us), used to live in the same slum where I rented a place," Pal said. "Shah Rukh Khan himself would visit Subhash`s house every 4-6 months, especially during special occasions like birthdays. He`d come quietly, late at night, around 12 or 1 after everything was dark. He`d just stay for 10–15 minutes and leave."This anecdote highlights Khan`s grounded nature and his willingness to go the extra mile for his employees, treating them like family. It`s a stark contrast to the larger-than-life persona he portrays on screen.
Pal`s interview also sheds light on another instance showcasing Khan`s respect for fellow artists. During a Singapore tour, Pal performed for a stadium audience that included Khan himself. "The Morani brothers had arranged a tour for me in Singapore, where I was paid Rs. 20,000," Pal recalled. "After the show, Shah Rukh Khan introduced every performer, including me, to the audience. Ganesh Hegde even invited me to perform for him in the green room."
Pal described encountering Khan in the green room, cigarette and drink in hand. He then proceeded to mimic Khan`s famous dialogues, much to the star`s amusement. This lighthearted interaction not only showcases Khan`s appreciation for humour but also his ability to connect with people on a personal level.
Also Read: Sanjay Leela Bhansali Says Today`s Actors Can`t Do What Shah Rukh Khan Did In Devdas
Sunil Pal talks about Aamir Khan’s humility
The interview doesn`t just focus on Khan. Pal also shared his experiences working with another Bollywood A-lister, Aamir Khan. He recounted performing for Aamir during the "Lagaan" tour, a period when the actor was riding high on the success of "Dil Chahta Hai" and "Lagaan.""Before the tour, I was told that Aamir would personally audition all performers," Pal said. "Apparently, nothing went ahead without his approval." Thankfully, Aamir`s focus was on building confidence rather than mere evaluation. " Ashutosh Gowariker introduced me to Aamir, and I did my act. What struck me most was how Aamir concentrated on boosting my confidence, not on accepting or rejecting me. Thankfully, he laughed at my first joke and agreed to have me on the tour."
Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan to Play Don for His Next Film King Alongside Daughter Suhana Khan
Pal concluded by commending both Khan and Khan for their respect for artists and their craft. "These superstars appreciate artists and what we do," he said. "That`s why they`re so humble and down-to-earth. In fact, Aamir wouldn`t even hesitate to sit on the floor and chat casually during discussions."
Sunil Pal`s anecdotes offer a glimpse into the human side of Bollywood`s biggest stars. They paint a picture of Shah Rukh Khan as a considerate employer and Aamir Khan as a supportive collaborator, both devoid of the arrogance often associated with celebrity status.
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