Filmmaker Aditya Chopra, known for his reclusive nature, stepped into the spotlight with his first on-screen interview in Smriti Mundhra’s Netflix docuseries, The Romantics. His immense knowledge and passion for filmmaking impressed viewers. On his birthday, we reflect on how Aditya transformed Shah Rukh Khan into Bollywood’s “King of Romance.”

Shah Rukh Khan candidly discussed his bond with Aditya, revealing that their friendship began during the shooting of "Darr." It was Aditya who conceived the iconic “K-K-K-Kiran” line after SRK shared a story about a stammering classmate.

Aditya’s persistence paid off, as he believed SRK's true appeal lay in his softer side. He shared how he convinced SRK by saying, “I feel you are hesitant to say no. You might choose not to do this which is completely fine. But I would just advise you not to shut your doors on never doing a love story. Because in this country, a superstar will only be that person who will be every mother’s son, every sister’s brother, and every college girl’s fantasy.”

"Darr" put SRK on the map, but it was "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge" (DDLJ) that cemented his status as a romantic hero. Initially reluctant to take on the role, SRK was convinced by Aditya, who saw his potential beyond action roles. Aditya famously advised SRK not to shut the door on love stories, suggesting that a true superstar must appeal to everyone—from mothers to college girls.

SRK ultimately signed on for DDLJ, which released in 1995 and became the longest-running film in Indian cinema history, earning him the title of Bollywood’s 'King of Romance.'