The relationship between Shah Rukh Khan and the legendary Dilip Kumar was one of mutual respect and affection, going beyond the typical camaraderie between actors. Their bond was so strong that Dilip Kumar's wife, Saira Banu, often regarded Shah Rukh as a son. It is a little-known fact that Dilip Kumar playfully "slapped" Shah Rukh Khan, an incident the latter credits with significantly boosting his career.

The incident occurred at the Zee Cine Awards in 2001. While hosting the event, Shah Rukh Khan narrated the anecdote with humor and reverence. He recalled meeting Dilip Kumar for the first time in Mumbai, when the veteran actor gently tapped him on the cheek and advised him to "work hard!". Shah Rukh Khan jokingly stated that coming from a Pathan like Dilip Kumar, even a light tap felt like a resounding slap.

More significantly, Shah Rukh Khan added that he didn't mind the gesture, as that "small slap" propelled his acting career forward by a decade. He lightheartedly said that if he ever needed another push, he would request Dilip Kumar for a more forceful slap to remain relevant for another two decades.

The following year, in 2002, Shah Rukh Khan starred in "Devdas", a role previously portrayed by Dilip Kumar in 1955. When preparing for the role, Shah Rukh sought guidance from Dilip Kumar, aiming to infuse the same powerful emotions into his portrayal. This meeting highlights the deep respect Shah Rukh Khan had for Dilip Kumar's craft and legacy.

Dilip Kumar, considered Bollywood's first superstar and a pioneer of method acting, emphasized the importance of strong storytelling and character depth for memorable performances. He believed that an actor's success depended on hard work, honesty, good luck, and collaboration, stressing that no actor should overshadow the story and screenplay. Shah Rukh Khan has clearly taken this advice to heart throughout his career.

Saira Banu once shared a touching sentiment about Shah Rukh, noting his resemblance to a young Dilip Kumar. She fondly remembered Shah Rukh Khan as a source of comfort and support after Dilip Kumar's death on December 7, 2021. She stated that Shah Rukh was among the first to offer his presence during that difficult time, showcasing his deep affection for Dilip Kumar.

From his early days visiting Dilip Kumar's house as a child to seeking his advice as a leading actor, Shah Rukh Khan's connection with Dilip Kumar remained strong and influential. The "mini slap" anecdote, while humorous, symbolizes the impact Dilip Kumar had on Shah Rukh Khan's career, pushing him towards even greater heights in the film industry. Today, Shah Rukh Khan is among the wealthiest actors in India, with a net worth of approximately 14,000 crore.