Cinema is the best place to sustain a counter-narrative that speaks to the larger nature of humankind : Shahrukh Khan

Shah Rukh Khan, known for his acting skills and charming personality, recently spoke out against cyber abuse and the ban culture that has emerged in response to protests against his upcoming film Pathaan. Despite the negativity surrounding the film, Khan appeared relaxed and composed at a recent event in Kolkata.

With a goofy grin, Shah Rukh first addressed the gathering in Bengali, referring to Amitabh Bachchan as the "son-in-law" of the city. He said,


Firstly, it’s great to be in Kolkata; it’s great to see Didi, Dada, the beloved son-in-law of Kolkata, Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya aunty here. We haven’t met for a long time. I am so happy to see my dear Rani… But I am the most excited to see you all. I haven’t been here for a couple of years.”


"The collective narrative of our times is shaped by social media. Contrary to the belief that social media will affect cinema negatively, I believe cinema has an even more important role to play now," he said at the opening of the 28th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF).


"Social media is often driven by a certain narrowness of view that limits human nature to its baser self. I read somewhere that negativity increases social media consumption and thereby increases its commercial value. Such pursuits enclose the collective narrative, making it divisive and destructive," Mr. Khan said.


"We haven't been able to meet for a while, but the world is becoming normal now. We are all happy, and I am the happiest. And I have no qualms in saying that no matter what the world does, I and you, and all positive people in the world are ALIVE," he added.


In his speech, Khan said, “Cinema brings humanity’s immense capacity for compassion, unity, and brotherhood to the fore.”


“Cinema is the best place to sustain a counter-narrative that speaks to the larger nature of humankind,” said Khan, the guest of honor at KIFF.