29 June,2026 06:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Rajkumar Hirani and Shah Rukh Khan. Pic via X
Filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani has shared an interesting behind-the-scenes anecdote about working with Shah Rukh Khan, revealing that the superstar still approaches every project with the enthusiasm of a newcomer. Speaking to IANS, Hirani said the actor would record his rehearsals on his phone every day and send them over for feedback, a habit that left the director impressed despite Shah Rukh's decades-long career.
The duo collaborated on Dunki, marking Hirani's first film with Shah Rukh. While discussing his experiences directing actors across generations, the filmmaker also dismissed the notion that younger stars are less patient or committed than veterans, saying dedication depends entirely on the individual.
Recalling his time working with Shah Rukh, Hirani said the actor's discipline reminded him of someone just starting out in the industry.
"I have worked with Shah Rukh. When you work with him, it is like he used to send me rehearsals like a newcomer. He used to record his shooting rehearsals on his phone every day and send me. I used to feel like I was working with a newcomer," Hirani shared.
The filmmaker added that Shah Rukh's willingness to constantly rehearse and seek feedback reflected his passion for acting, despite already being one of the biggest stars in Indian cinema. According to Hirani, it is this attitude that has helped the actor stay relevant and continue evolving throughout his career.
Hirani also addressed the perception that senior actors are more hardworking than the younger generation. He said professionalism has little to do with age and is instead shaped by a person's mindset.
The director recalled working with stars including Aamir Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi, Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal, saying each of them displayed an exceptional work ethic.
He revealed that Ranbir Kapoor would often arrive as early as 3 am for makeup, while Vicky Kaushal regularly sat with him to discuss scenes and prepare for filming. At the same time, Hirani acknowledged that some actors tend to complain about long schedules or limit themselves creatively, adding that such behaviour is more about personality than experience.
For now, Dunki remains the only collaboration between Hirani and Shah Rukh, but the filmmaker's latest comments have once again highlighted the superstar's reputation as one of Bollywood's most dedicated performers.
