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Shah Rukh Khan, the King of Bollywood, has been quite vocal about his love for reading. With his charismatic on-screen presence, one might not immediately associate him with being an avid reader, but SRK has often shared his passion for literature. His recommendations cover a wide spectrum, from thrilling adventures to reflective poetry. Here are 8 of the books that Shah Rukh Khan has recommended over the years:
1. The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown
Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code is a fast-paced thriller that combines art, history, and religion in a gripping mystery. The plot revolves around Robert Langdon, a symbologist, and Sophie Neveu, a cryptologist, who uncover a secret that has been hidden for centuries, tied to the works of Leonardo da Vinci. Shah Rukh Khan has expressed his admiration for this book, likely appreciating its blend of intellectual challenge and thrilling plot, which mirrors the complexity and intrigue of some of his own movie roles.
2. Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
SRK has shown a love for the Harry Potter series, which has captivated readers of all ages around the globe. J.K. Rowling's magical world of wizards, Hogwarts, and Harry's fight against the dark lord Voldemort has become a cultural phenomenon. The themes of friendship, courage, and the battle between good and evil resonate with Khan’s own outlook on storytelling and cinema. Shah Rukh's children are also fans of the series, further cementing its place as a family favourite.
3. David and Goliath by Malcolm Gladwell
In David and Goliath, Malcolm Gladwell explores the idea that underdogs and misfits often have surprising strengths. He reexamines the classic biblical story of David and Goliath, showing how perceived disadvantages can turn into advantages. Shah Rukh Khan’s own journey from a Delhi boy with no film connections to becoming one of Bollywood’s biggest stars mirrors the themes of this book. Khan appreciates Gladwell’s thought-provoking writing, which challenges traditional narratives of success.
4. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
The first book in the Percy Jackson & The Olympians series, The Lightning Thief introduces readers to Percy Jackson, a demigod, who embarks on an epic quest to prevent a war among the gods. Shah Rukh Khan has recommended this book for its engaging storyline and imaginative take on Greek mythology. The adventurous spirit of Percy and his resilience may resonate with Khan, who has often portrayed characters with similar heroic qualities on-screen.
5. The Hollow by Nora Roberts
Nora Roberts is known for her romantic suspense novels, and The Hollow is the second book in the Sign of Seven Trilogy. It’s a supernatural thriller that blends romance with mystery, where a group of childhood friends must confront a dark force that has plagued their town for generations. SRK, known for his romantic hero roles, may find a connection with Roberts' ability to weave romance into complex narratives, making The Hollow a fascinating recommendation from him.
6. The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
A quirky, humorous, and out-of-this-world adventure, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy is a sci-fi classic. It follows Arthur Dent, an ordinary man, who is swept off Earth just before it’s destroyed, embarking on a bizarre intergalactic journey. SRK has recommended this book for its wit and imagination. The absurdity and humour of the book align with Khan’s own offbeat sense of humour, seen in both interviews and some of his film roles.
7. Refusing Heaven by Jack Gilbert
Refusing Heaven is a collection of poems by Jack Gilbert, reflecting on love, loss, and life’s fleeting moments. Shah Rukh Khan has always been open about his philosophical side, often delving into deep, existential questions. This poetry collection, with its profound reflections on the human condition, likely appeals to the actor’s introspective nature. Khan’s own experiences of life, fame, and personal loss may have drawn him to Gilbert’s evocative poetry.
8. The Dark Tower by Stephen King
Stephen King's The Dark Tower series is an epic blend of fantasy, horror, and western genres. It follows the journey of Roland Deschain, the last Gunslinger, as he seeks the mysterious Dark Tower. SRK's love for multi-layered, expansive narratives makes The Dark Tower a fitting recommendation. King’s exploration of complex themes like destiny, obsession, and the nature of good and evil resonates with many of the deeper themes explored in Khan’s filmography.