In Indian film, Shah Rukh Khan has long been seen as a representation of fame; he is a self-made hero whose ascent continues to motivate millions of people. Telugu actor Vijay Deverakonda, who previously publicly disputed a daring assertion made by Shah Rukh in a now-famous interview, is one of many who has found inspiration in his path.

On The Anupam Kher Show, Shah Rukh was questioned about whether he was ever concerned about being eclipsed by a new generation of performers in an open discussion with Anupam Kher. “No, that won’t happen,” he said with his characteristic assurance. As Anu Sir said, I am humble, but that will not occur. To be quite honest, I am the last of the stars.

Vijay Deverakonda, however, had a different viewpoint in 2022. The Arjun Reddy actor recounted how Shah Rukh’s success in Bollywood encouraged him to pursue his own goals in an interview with GQ India. “The extent to which Shah Rukh Khan’s achievement inspired me is beyond words. It made it very evident to me: why couldn’t I do it if he could? As a point of reference, you just need one successful individual. I declined to work on a lot of movies, even when I was a nobody. I’ve always had the feeling that I was destined for more. “You will never have a chance like this,” many claimed, but I had higher standards for myself”. And if the Bollywood icon ever gets to meet him? Vijay was prepared with his response. “I remember wanting to tell Shah Rukh, ‘You’re incorrect,’ when I watched his interview. You are not the last one. I’m on my way.”

Vijay Deverakonda’s next film is an action movie called Kingdom. According to Vijay, the film is a “thick-layered action drama” that goes beyond the typical chase sequences and is full of unfiltered emotions and compelling narrative. Kingdom is looking to be a unique production for the actor, with director Gowtam Tinnanuri leading a formidable team of National Award winners. In the meanwhile, Sujoy Ghosh’s King will include Shah Rukh Khan.