Shah Rukh Khan explains his ‘no one can afford us’ comment, leaves Salman Khan and Aamir Khan in splits

For Bollywood fans, witnessing Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan together was nothing short of cinematic history. The trio, who have defined stardom in India for over three decades, shared the stage at a global event in Riyadh, speaking about their journeys, their bond, and the long-speculated dream of working together in a single film.

During the discussion, Shah Rukh Khan opened up about the admiration he holds for Salman and Aamir, while hinting at the elusive project fans have wished for. “Let me show off a little. It’s been too long I’ve been humble on this part. I have to say, if three of us are in a project, it is a dream itself. Hopefully not a nightmare,” SRK joked, earning applause from the crowd.

He went on to say, “Inshallah, whenever we get an opportunity, a story… we’re always sitting, whenever Aamir, Salman, and myself meet. I look up to these two because of the kind of ups and downs and the work they’ve done. These people are aspirational and inspirational. I feel thankful to be on the same stage with them.”

The moment turned humorous when Salman Khan interrupted with a grin, teasing SRK about his famous “affordability” comment. “Shah Rukh keeps saying no one can afford the three of us in a film together. Say it here too,” Salman said, making everyone laugh.

SRK, never missing a beat, replied, “I don’t want to say it in Saudi because everyone will stand up and say, Habibi, done, done!” The crowd erupted. He then clarified, “Affordability isn’t about money. It’s the timing, our quirks, and how much we joke around. Any director will have to remind us to actually start working.”

Salman concluded with a thoughtful line: “When we three work together, the hero won’t be Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, or Aamir Khan. The star will be the script.”

Their rare, warm exchange reminded audiences why these three continue to define Bollywood’s golden era — not just as actors, but as legends bound by friendship and mutual respect.