When Shah Rukh Khan told Kajol to 'learn to act,' but she didn't take it seriously then

Over the decades, the pairing of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol has become emblematic of Bollywood's golden era of romance. From their first explosive collaboration in Baazigar to the iconic Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, and later emotional dramas like Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and My Name Is Khan, their screen chemistry continues to captivate audiences worldwide. While the duo's cinematic synergy is well known, it's their off-camera friendship that remains equally admired.

The Deep-Rooted Bond Between Two Film Legends

In a recent conversation with The Lallantop, Kajol delved into her long-standing connection with Shah Rukh Khan, offering insight into how their shared understanding, trust, and professionalism contributed to their consistent success. She emphasized that their collaboration was more than just good acting—it was fueled by mutual appreciation and dynamic energy that translated beautifully onto the screen.

Reflecting on their legacy, Kajol acknowledged that Shah Rukh’s career is the result of decades of unyielding commitment and hard work. She described his ascent from small-screen beginnings to global superstardom as an inspiring journey marked by unwavering determination. According to her, the nickname " King Khan" is well-earned—not simply bestowed upon him by fans, but the result of sheer perseverance and tireless effort. Kajol credited Shah Rukh entirely for the empire he has built, stating that his current stature is rooted in relentless discipline and self-belief.

Valuable Advice That Took Time to Sink In

During the early phase of her career, Kajol received a piece of advice from Shah Rukh that she initially disregarded. He had warned her that pouring all of one’s emotional energy into every performance could be draining. At the time, Kajol was known for her intense portrayals and had a habit of immersing herself completely in each role.

However, during the shooting of Udhaar Ki Zindagi in 1994—when she was only 18—Kajol hit an emotional breaking point. The film demanded deep emotional vulnerability, and by the time it wrapped, she felt physically and mentally depleted. That’s when Shah Rukh’s words came back to her. She realized that constantly giving 300 percent to every performance wasn’t sustainable. Such an approach could strip an actor of their emotional reserves. It marked the beginning of a shift in how she approached her craft.

Burnout at 18: A Turning Point

The emotional burden was so heavy that Kajol momentarily considered stepping away from films altogether. Feeling worn out, she confessed to her mother, veteran actor Tanuja, that she no longer wanted to continue acting. The frequent demands of emotionally charged scenes, especially ones involving prolonged crying or trauma, had left her drained.

That phase became a pivotal moment in Kajol’s career. It pushed her to evolve as an actor—not just emotionally, but technically. She began to understand the importance of preserving her emotional well-being while still delivering impactful performances. It was a maturing process, influenced in part by Shah Rukh’s earlier advice and her own lived experience.

The Dilemma of ‘Dushman’ and the Challenge of Portraying Trauma

In the same interview, Kajol recalled another emotionally demanding project—Dushman, a psychological thriller released in 1998. She was hesitant to sign on to the film initially. One of the characters she was to portray was a rape victim, and she was extremely uncomfortable with the idea of enacting such trauma on screen.

Producer Pooja Bhatt approached her with the script, which Kajol loved. However, the prospect of performing scenes involving molestation deeply troubled her. She expressed that, as an actor, she felt emotions intensely during scenes and did not wish to subject herself to such trauma in the name of authenticity. She believed her skill as an actor could be showcased through less distressing material.

Kajol eventually agreed to the project after being reassured by both Pooja Bhatt and her mother, Tanuja. They promised her that her boundaries would be respected. The sensitive scenes would be handled with discretion, including the use of a body double. The fact that both the producer and director were women gave Kajol a level of comfort and trust, allowing her to go ahead with the role.

A Dual Role and a Demanding Storyline

In Dushman, Kajol took on the challenge of portraying twin sisters—one of whom becomes the victim of a sadistic killer, played chillingly by Ashutosh Rana. The surviving sister then embarks on a quest for vengeance, ultimately training under a blind military veteran portrayed by Sanjay Dutt. The film was praised for its bold narrative and powerful performances, with Kajol receiving acclaim for her intense and layered acting.

While Dushman didn’t dominate the box office in the same way as Kajol’s romantic blockbuster Kuch Kuch Hota Hai—which was also released that year—it garnered respect for its raw and gritty storytelling. The contrast between the two films further showcased Kajol’s remarkable versatility.

Continuing Her Journey with Conviction

More recently, Kajol was seen in Maa, a supernatural thriller that is part of the expanding ‘Shaitaan’ cinematic universe. In this film, she portrays a mother who fights against dark, otherworldly forces to protect her child, once again demonstrating her range and fearlessness in taking on complex roles.

Through her decades-long career, Kajol has navigated highs and lows with grace. Her ability to reflect on her journey—crediting peers like Shah Rukh Khan for their impact while also being candid about her personal struggles—offers a window into the resilience behind the celebrated actress. She remains a powerful force in Indian cinema, not only for the characters she plays but for the honesty with which she discusses what it takes to embody them.