Celebrity photographer Avinash Gowariker recently shared a heartwarming anecdote about Shah Rukh Khan's kindness during the initial days of his career. Gowariker, who has photographed numerous Bollywood stars, including Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Aishwarya Rai, and Deepika Padukone, recounted his most memorable experience was with Shah Rukh Khan.
The incident occurred in 1998 on the sets of the film "Duplicate". Gowariker, then a novice photographer, was tasked with taking on-set shots of Shah Rukh Khan. As a newcomer, he felt overwhelmed and nervous, struggling to get the shots right.
Gowariker recalled feeling flustered while setting up the shots. Noticing his discomfort, Shah Rukh Khan immediately offered assistance, asking if he needed anything and reassuring him not to stress. Shah Rukh Khan asked him if he needed an extra light and told him to relax and take his time. Gowariker was deeply touched by the actor's considerate and warm gesture, especially since he was just starting. He found it rare for someone so established to be so thoughtful towards a newcomer.
According to Gowariker, Shah Rukh Khan's empathy likely stems from his own experiences as an outsider in the film industry. Having arrived in Mumbai with nothing, Shah Rukh Khan understands the challenges faced by those trying to break into the industry. Gowariker believes that Shah Rukh Khan sees a reflection of his past struggles in those who are new to the industry, which explains his kindness and respect towards them.
Beyond this act of on-set support, Gowariker revealed Shah Rukh Khan's exceptional generosity towards his technicians. He shared that Shah Rukh Khan gives his technicians blank checks, allowing them to fill in any amount they deem appropriate. This act of trust and generosity impressed Gowariker, reinforcing his high regard for the actor.
Gowariker's experience on the set of "Duplicate" left a lasting impression. He has not forgotten Shah Rukh’s supportive behavior to date. He describes Shah Rukh Khan as someone who genuinely cares for people and treats everyone with respect, irrespective of their position.
In subsequent years, Avinash Gowariker had the opportunity to work with Shah Rukh Khan on numerous occasions, eventually becoming the Khan family's photographer. He shot iconic family pictures at their residence, Mannat. Gowariker has expressed his admiration for Shah Rukh Khan's easygoing work ethic, humility, and effortless approach to everything he does.