Shah Rukh Khan Shares 'Industry Embraced Me with Open Arms' on Insider vs Outsider Debate at WAVES 2025

Shah Rukh Khan once again proved why he’s known as the king of hearts. At the recent WAVES 2025 Summit, held under the theme ‘Connecting Creators, Connecting Countries’, he shared powerful words on the much-debated insider versus outsider topic in Bollywood. SRK spoke during a session titled ‘The Journey: From Outsider to Ruler’, where he was joined by actress Deepika Padukone and hosted by Karan Johar.

The panel mainly discussed how new talent often struggles to find space in an industry full of star kids and big names. When asked about his own journey, Shah Rukh didn’t hold back. “I would like to clarify, hunger are lofty words. I have a problem with the distinction of insider and outsider. It is important how to make space in any world,” he said. With honesty, he added, “If you pity yourself then you will not be able to make way into the industry.”

SRK shared that true success doesn’t come from expecting others to make space for you. “No world gives a damn about you,” he said, adding that believing in yourself is key. He also remembered how, despite being an outsider, he felt accepted. “When I came to the film industry, I believed this is my world and the industry embraced me with open arms,” he shared.

In a heartfelt moment, Shah Rukh turned to Deepika and said something that touched everyone. He said he hoped he wasn’t crossing any lines, but in his opinion, the most beautiful role Deepika would ever play was that of a mother. Deepika smiled warmly at his words, clearly moved by the comment.

Apart from this emotional and powerful panel, WAVES 2025 also saw the presence of big names like Aamir Khan, Rajinikanth, Ranbir Kapoor, Saif Ali Khan, Shahid Kapoor, Hema Malini, and Anil Kapoor. Global leaders such as Ted Sarandos (Netflix), Neal Mohan (YouTube), and Adam Mosseri (Instagram) also took part in this four-day global entertainment summit. With such names in attendance, the event clearly aimed to position India as a creative powerhouse on the world stage.