Mumbai, September 24, 2025 — Actress Amrita Rao has opened up about a pivotal moment in her career, recalling a piece of advice from Shah Rukh Khan that continues to shape her professional choices more than two decades later. In a recent appearance on Ranveer Allahbadia’s podcast, Rao reflected on her experience working with Khan during the filming of Main Hoon Na (2004), Farah Khan’s directorial debut.
Rao shared that Shah Rukh Khan, known for his generosity and mentorship on set, once told her:
“200 filmein aayengi, par humein sirf do filmein karni hai. Aur usmein se ek film ho jo log intezaar kar rahe hain.”
(“You’ll be offered 200 films, but you should only do two — and one of them should be the kind people are waiting for.”)
“This advice became my guiding principle,” Rao said. “It’s the reason I’ve been so selective throughout my journey. I’ve always looked for roles that resonate deeply and leave a lasting impact” [1]2][3].
She also praised Khan’s work ethic and presence on set, noting his ability to calm nervous newcomers and deliver flawless performances in a single take. “His temperament was such that he believed in getting it right the first time. He’d say, ‘Second take dena hi nahi hai’ — be so focused that you don’t need another,” Rao added 2][4].
Beyond professional guidance, Rao recalled Khan’s warmth and humility. During breaks in filming, he would invite her and her mother for conversations, offering encouragement and affirming her potential as a future star.
Rao, who recently returned to the big screen with Jolly LLB 3, said the advice still holds true. “It’s not just about quantity. It’s about choosing stories that matter,” she emphasized.
Shah Rukh Khan, meanwhile, continues to inspire generations of actors. His recent National Award win for Jawan has further cemented his legacy as one of India’s most respected performers.
