An evening with King Khan.

Sharukh Khan was in Chennai recently. We followed him throughout the day and give below excerpts from a lively chat with him.

Q: What do you feel about the exclusive female following? Take a peep outside.

Shah :( chuckles) Well, My mother has been a great influence on me. I have great respect for women. My films always have strong female characters. May be, that appeals to them.

Q: What is the secret of your ebullience?

Shah: (that famous dimpled smile) You know, I just love food. But, I eat in moderation. I work out just enough after the severe back injury last year. But the main reason is that I have a child-like contentment in life. I am at peace with myself and others around me. So, it reflects on the energy levels.

Q: How do you find the time to spend with your family?

Shah: It is all in the art of time management. I am a sworn home bird. I don’t go out on parties. It’s my wife and children after the shoots. After the release of every film, I take a break of a few months to be available exclusively for my family.

Q: Your opinion on the Tamil audience…

Shah: They are very intelligent. They accept style and substance. It is very difficult to get the status that Rajinikanth has got with the people over here.

Q: Your experience of working in Tamil with Kamal….

Shah: Unbelievable is the only word that comes to mind. Kamal is unique and his perfectionism and dedication are mind blowing. I learnt a lot during the making of Hey Ram.

Q: You continue to hold the sway in Hindi…. Shah: I work only in films which I believe in. It is very difficult to convince me. Once I go ahead with a project, I give it everything that I can offer. I do not like to disappoint the viewer who comes with some expectations from a Sharukh film. Q: Your thoughts on some memorable films…. Shah: Undeniably, DDLJ tops the list of favorites. Even after 10 years, it is running to packed houses. Neat story told in a simple manner made the film a huge success. My recent release of Veer Zarra is another milestone for my professional career. The chance to work under the legendary Yash Chopra and the unforgettable music score of Madan Mohan made it a cherished affair.

Q: Any attempts at the National awards….

Shah: I expected an award for Swades.

Q: Your experiences as a producer…

Shah: My production company has made quite a few good films like Paheli. Besides, Kaal which was directed by my friend Karan Johar, I made a cameo appearance. I produce films mostly by young directors who have novel scripts.

Q: You have come to Chennai after a long time…..

Shah: I was here during the filming of Hey Ram. Now, I am here to launch the TAG Hauer brand of watches for which I am the brand ambassador.

Q: You are in Chennai. What is your view of the success of Chandramukhi?

Shah: As I said earlier, it is very difficult to be a mass winner like Rajinikanth. Much as I would love to, I have not yet seen Chandramukhi. I believe the sub-titles are being added now. I should get to see it in a couple of days.

Q: We have been with you throughout the day. Your enthusiasm is just the same. Any secrets?

Shah: Well, it has nothing to do with me. Insha Allah, it is a divine gift.