Times Shah Rukh Khan Talked About Tolerance and Secularism

From the importance of secularism to criticizing the rising intolerance in the country, some powerful quotes by SRK.

Shah Rukh Khan turns 57 today. 

(Photo Courtesy: The Quint)

Shah Rukh Khan’s powerful speech at the inauguration of 28th Kolkata International Film Festival is making waves on social media. His speech comes in the light of controversy and boycott calls for his new movie Pathaan - which is yet to be released.  

The song Besharam Rang, especially, has come under the scanner of right-wing groups, who have objected over the green and saffron coloured outfit that Deepika is sporting in the song. These groups allege that the ‘saffron colour’ is being associated with ‘indecent acts’ and is promoting ‘anti-Hindu’ mentality. 

Speaking at the event, Shah Rukh, highlighted the negative impact of social media and how destructive and divisive ideas get propagated through these platforms, thus adversely affecting society as a whole. He reiterated the importance of free speech and the need for a space for more liberal ideas in public spaces.

This, however, is not the first time that Shah Rukh has taken his stand against the trolls and communal comments. He has been a vocal advocate of secularism and freedom of speech.

As the son of a freedom fighter, Meer Taj Mohammed Khan, Shah Rukh has always kept the ideas of secularism alive in his own life.

Having married a Punjabi Hindu woman, Shah Rukh makes sure that he celebrates Hindu festivals as much enthusiasm as he celebrates Eid and not just that, he ensures that his children also live by the ideas of secularism and respect all religions.

On many occasions, Shah Rukh has spoken about his experiences as an Indian Muslim, growing up in a secular country and celebrating different religions.

Speaking against the growing intolerance in the country, he once said, "It is stupid to be intolerant and this is our biggest issue, not just an issue. Religious intolerance and not being secular in this country is the worst kind of crime that you can do as a patriot."

This bold statement even subjected him to hate comments and vilification, but he has always maintained that in a country like ours, secularism is one value, that we must protect at all costs.