Farah Khan cautioned Zayed Khan against pushing Shah Rukh Khan too hard during Main Hoon Na shoot: ‘SRK said let him do, it’s nice’

For Zayed, who admired Shah Rukh, getting an opportunity to share the screenspace, was nothing short of a dream come true.  As a long-time fan of Shah Rukh Khan, Zayed was both thrilled and nervous when the team gathered for dinner at the Windermere guest house in Darjeeling where SRK was also present.  Zayed stressed that working alongside those we admire can be a scary experience and stated, it can send “shivers down the spine.” 

Zayed then reminisced about his first scene with Shah Rukh, where he accidentally pushed the superstar too hard due to a misunderstanding of the script. His first scene with SRK involved interacting with Boman Irani, where he was meant to give him a push. “I decided to add my own personal touch to the scene. Farah, concerned about Shah Rukh’s well-being due to a back issue, advised me to be cautious with my movements,” he said. However, Shah Rukh stepped in and told him he was impressed with the way how Zayed enacted the scene urging Farah to let his do it his way.

The two actors quickly developed a strong rapport, both on and off the set. As they started doing the scene, the ice between them broke.  Their shared passion for the FIFA video game further strengthened their bond, as the two engaged in matches that showcased their competitive spirits.  When it comes to the question of who emerged victorious in our gaming battles,  Zayed said he likes to think he had the upper hand, though Shah Rukh might beg to differ. Regardless of the outcome, their mutual love for gaming transcended age and stardom, revealing a more personal side to SRK. He described the atmosphere on set as being joyful as every member of the cast and crew was willing to go the extra mile to ensure the film’s success.  

 Zaid had previously worked with Rakhi Sawant on a song in his debut film, Chura Liya Hai Tumne, and they instantly became friendly and developed a respectful and playful relationship.   Recognising his protective side, Zayed mentioned how Rakhi would often turn to him when the teasing from the rest of the crew became too much, confiding in him as a trusted friend.  He said Rakhi “had a vernacular way of doing things.”  He accepted while they cracked jokes on her, he ensured that the jokes never crossed a line.

The Blue actor also lauded Farah’s directorial prowess and her in-depth knowledge of cinema. He also commended her infectious enthusiasm, quick wit, and ability to maintain a balance between humour and professionalism on set.  He said the director’s ability to treat everyone on set equally, regardless of their position or status truly stands out as he described her as “godmother”. Whether interacting with a spot boy or a big producer, Farah maintained a consistent level of respect.  Zayed said, one moment she would be nurturing, loving and kind, gently encouraging him with a warm, and the next she would become a strict disciplinarian, stating she was both “motherly” and “stepmotherly.”