Shah Rukh Khan was born as Shahrukh Khan on 2 November 1965 in New Delhi, India. He studied at St. Columba's School in Delhi and later graduated from Hansraj College with a bachelor's degree in economics. He also studied mass communication at Jamia Millia Islamia before pursuing acting professionally.
Before entering Hindi cinema, Shah Rukh Khan gained recognition through Indian television. He appeared in popular television series such as Fauji and Circus, which helped establish him as a promising young performer.
He made his Hindi film debut as a leading actor with Deewana (1992). His performance earned him the Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut. He soon became known for playing unconventional anti-heroes and negative characters in films such as Baazigar and Darr.
Shah Rukh's career reached another level with Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995), in which he played Raj Malhotra opposite Kajol. The film became one of the defining romantic films of Hindi cinema and established his enduring image as a romantic superstar. He subsequently starred in major successes including Dil To Pagal Hai, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Mohabbatein, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, and Devdas.
He also demonstrated his versatility through films such as Swades, Chak De! India, My Name Is Khan, and Don. His performances have earned numerous awards, including multiple Filmfare Awards. He was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2005, the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres in 2007, and the Legion of Honour in 2014.
After a period away from leading roles, Shah Rukh Khan returned to major commercial success with Pathaan (2023) and Jawan (2023). Both films became major box-office successes and marked a powerful comeback for the actor. Dunki followed later in 2023.
Alongside acting, Shah Rukh Khan is a film producer and entrepreneur. He co-founded Red Chillies Entertainment and has also been associated with the Kolkata Knight Riders cricket franchise.