Aryan Khan Draws on Shah Rukh Khan’s Delhi Memories for Scene in ‘The Ba*ds of Bollywood’

Aryan Khan, in his directorial venture The Ba**ds of Bollywood*, has incorporated a scene inspired by a memory from his father Shah Rukh Khan’s early life in Delhi, adding a personal and nostalgic touch to the series. The moment occurs in the second episode, when the protagonist, Aasmaan—played by Lakshya—visits his parents in Delhi. During the visit, he and his father stop by a local paan shop, where the shopkeeper recalls Aasmaan’s childhood habit of requesting a specific chewing gum. In a humorous yet poignant twist, Aasmaan now asks for a cigarette instead of the gum, reflecting the character’s growth and coming-of-age.

The scene mirrors a real-life anecdote shared by Shah Rukh Khan on the talk show Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai, in which he reminisced about his youth in Delhi. Khan fondly recalled how a paan shop owner would greet him and offer him a paan and cigarette, creating a sense of warmth and belonging. Aryan’s decision to include this memory pays homage to his father while highlighting the family’s roots in Delhi and the everyday nuances of city life.

The Ba**ds of Bollywood* has gained attention for its satirical portrayal of the film industry, featuring cameos from prominent stars including Ranbir Kapoor, Emraan Hashmi, and Ranveer Singh. The series blends humor, drama, and behind-the-scenes insights into Bollywood, earning praise for its creative storytelling and engaging performances.

By weaving personal family memories with fictional narratives, Aryan Khan showcases a storytelling style that is both reflective and entertaining. The inclusion of Shah Rukh Khan’s early experiences offers audiences a glimpse into the personal history behind Bollywood legends while underscoring Aryan’s emerging voice as a director and storyteller in India’s entertainment industry.