Atlee calls Shah Rukh Khan his mentor in birthday tribute

Filmmaker Atlee has marked Shah Rukh Khan's birthday with a warm public tribute, calling the actor his mentor and biggest inspiration. The message was posted on Instagram on 2 November, the day Khan turned a year older.

Atlee shared a black-and-white photograph of himself talking with Khan. In the caption he thanked the actor for guiding and encouraging him over the years. "Thank you for being my mentor, my guide, my well-wisher and my biggest inspiration in this incredible journey," he wrote.

Atlee said working with Khan had taught him more than filmmaking. He said the time they spent together had shaped his view of people and life, and had taught him to stay humble. He signed off with "Grateful, always."

The Jawan connection

The tribute points to the partnership behind Jawan (2023). The action entertainer was Atlee's debut in mainstream Hindi cinema. Khan played two roles in the film, Vikram Rathore and Azad. Nayanthara and Vijay Sethupathi also starred, and the film became one of the major theatrical releases of 2023.

Khan's performance in the film later earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor at the 71st National Film Awards. He shared that honour with Vikrant Massey, who was recognised for 12th Fail.

For Indian film fans, the tribute is a reminder of how far Jawan travelled. It was a major box-office success and a rare large-scale Hindi release from a director better known for South Indian films.

Atlee ended his message by looking ahead to Khan's next theatrical release, KING. He said he cannot wait to watch it. The message did not give a release date for the film.