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How do you describe the enigma that is Shah Rukh Khan? The year started with him making a comeback after four years, tapping his action avatar in Pathaan. Playing the religion-agnostic soldier, who will do anything for Bharat Maa, the superstar left his fans excited. Eight months later, many would have felt that the euphoria among his worshippers would have lessened but Jawan has again proved his charisma. His portrayal in the film is also a testament to his place in the world of cinema and India at large.
The Atlee-directed action drama is SRK’s ‘first pan-India film’ and he delivers with the panache of a true cinematic monarch. It’s no more a secret that he plays a double role, that of the father and son. The film may have started with mystery around his character, but we are soon introduced to Azad, the Robin Hood in town. However, it’s only in the second half that we meet Vikram Rathore, who takes on the villain with a truly meta dialogue, ‘Bete ko haath lagane se pehle, baap se baat kar‘. At this point, it becomes evident that Shah Rukh Khan isn’t just portraying a character; he’s speaking directly to his fans and his haters. Through the film, King Khan tackles subjects few would dare, even if they were paid to do so. He fearlessly delves into issues most shy away from in today’s political climate, as he fights the war with an army of women.
The film offers entertainment and drama — something audience signed up for — along with a host of relevant messages. Farmer suicides, a burning issue that is rarely addressed in media or public sphere, gets a hearing in an important sequence of the film. The story may seem too dramatic in a film but it mirrors the bitter truth of India.
If you thought that was a brave topic to pick, Shah Rukh and Atlee also touched upon the corruption in the medical fraternity. Sanya Malhotra’s character, allegedly shaped after Dr. Kafeel Khan, has to bear the accusation of multiple child deaths because she decided to stand against the system. Jawan also touched upon the faulty weapon supplied to the army, ala INSAS (Indian National Small Arms Systems) scandal. The rifles, as per The Week report, plagued India’s armed forces since it was introduced in the 1990s.
As you grapple with the many societal insights, the finale has Shah Rukh Khan give a monologue that many political parties (especially the opposition) are already laying claim to. The superstar engages with the audience, asking them to ponder why they vote for religion, money or under fear. Why don’t they question the politicians about what they will do for the development of their families, community, and even the country? “Puchho usse ki mere liye agle 5 saal mein kya karoge? Agar parivaar mein koi bimar ho jaaye to uske ilaaj ke liye kya karoge? Mujhe naukri dilaane ke liye kya karoge? Desh ko aage badhaane ke liye kya karoge?” In this powerful moment, SRK’s character, Azad, implores his fans to demand accountability from the people they vote to power.
In a time when everyone around talks about woman power, Shah Rukh Khan walks the talk. His army in the film comprises six female jail inmates, who call him ‘Chief’. A couple of them are wrongly accused while others resorted to vigilantism due to systemic oppression. The film demonstrates SRK’s unwavering commitment to advocating respect and equality for all genders. Even his heroines, be it Deepika Padukone or Nayanthara play formidable roles. Deepika packs quite a punch and even pins SRK down in her entry scene, while Nayanthara takes him on during another action scene. Also, full points for the makers to even have a female lead talk about having a baby with her boyfriend, and bringing up the child as a single mother.
While Shah Rukh Khan may have put a blanket ban on the media in the last two years, through Jawan, he makes bold, brave statements. Through his character, he fearlessly addresses critical societal issues, challenges the status quo, and empowers women, all while delivering a powerful message of accountability in politics. His portrayal in Jawan not only entertains but also inspires reflection on the world we live in, making him a true force to be reckon with. In his own confession, he is the ‘last of the stars’ but fans would agree Shah Rukh is the ‘baap of all stars’.
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