Shahrukh Khan: A Biography of One of Bollywood's Leading Men

Many people in the United States have not heard his name but trust me - that will soon change. Shahrukh Khan is one of Bollywood's most successful Indian actors and he's got the resume to prove it! With over 60 movie and television credits (and counting) to his name, it's needless to say that this Indian actor is definitely on fire.

I used to refer to Shahrukh as the "Indian Tom Cruise" because pretty much every project he is involved in turns to gold (although the reference to Tom Cruise now seems questionable considering his recent episodes with Oprah and his Scientology beliefs). He has definitely made his talented acting known to the Indian/Pakistani community that live in the United States that he is definitely worth investing your time and money into because in the time it takes to sit through and entire Bollywood movie, you will have seen some of the most intense acting from an Indian actor to date.

Born in India November 2, 1965, Shahrukh Khan (originally named Shah Rukh Khan but he changed the spelling) was not born with the looks that most successful Bollywood actors have. Despite his unruly hair, average height and big nose, he made a name for himself and would not give up his goal, no matter how difficult the path.

His path to his career began with television roles in various shows during the later 1980s to the early 1990s. He finally caught the eye of director, Hema Malini, and was cast in his first movie role in 1992 which was a huge success and needless to say, a big achievement for being in his late 20s.

However, his first big break through came with Dilwale Dulhania La Jayenge. Now, before I go into my personal opinion of this movie, I have to say that to watch a Bollywood movie, you MUST give up any notion of reality. What I mean by that, is that the idea that "love surpasses all" seems to be a golden rule that Bollywood Blockbusters live by. Think of Romeo and Juliet minus the killing and sad ending.

The concept of the rich boy falling in love with the girl from the wrong side of the tracks (and vice versa) and maybe throw in a love triangle, is the formula to Bollywood movies being successful. Also, I should warn you that I am definitely not the type of woman that watches American romantic movies in my spare time. In fact, I watch anything but. So, to say that I love watching Bollywood romantic movies - you know they've got to be good!

When it comes to Bollywood movies - I'm so there! With that said, I would have to say that Dilwale Dulhania La Jayenge is my ultimate favorite Bollywood movie. The love story is so incredibly romantic and cheesy that it's good! The soundtrack is priceless with such memorable songs and tunes that you can't help but dance a little! You know this movie is great when it remained in Indian theaters for 555 weeks straight because of its huge success and popularity. 555 weeks!! As of June 2006, it was finally taken off the movie theater venue. This movie depicts Shahrukh's at his best especially since it is the role that opened up the door to more Bollywood successes. It was clear that India wanted to see more of Shahrukh.

Along with his great acting, Shahrukh has a Master's Degree in Mass Communication as well! He owns his own production company with a fellow actress, Juhi Chawla and has invested much time and energy in other movies playing the role of producer. This was a great step for him because a number of his own movies that he produced were Blockbuster successes. One of his films he backed was Paheli, which was considered for a nomination for the Academy Awards. Shahrukh has definitely played his cards right and has earned the respect of his fellow actors. He has won a number of other awards including a number of magazine awards and a large number of FilmFare Awards starting back in 1992 with Best Debut.

Shahrukh is married since 1991 and has two children. The fact that he has been married for 15 years and has two children is unheard of in Hollywood! If you pass the six months mark it's a big achievement. Shahrukh has been notoriously known for never "dating around" and allowing himself to be portrayed as the Bollywood Playboy. He has shown that he has much respect for his craft as well as upholding his personal rule not to kiss any leading actresses on the mouth in any of his movies.

You've got to hand it to him. He's created an empire and name for himself that is beginning to cross over the ocean and to the United States. Although you will see Shahrukh in many romantic movies as the tear-jerker, goofy but lovable guy with his puppy dog eyes - don't let it fool you! He plays each role with as much conviction and energy than any other Indian actor I've seen. Make sure to check this Bollywood actor out because with a career like his, there's definitely a lot to appreciate.