Shah Rukh Khan Shares Emotional Reason Behind His Lifelong Promise About Visiting Kashmir

Shah Rukh Khan, one of Bollywood’s most beloved stars, has often captured hearts not just through his films but also through poignant glimpses into his personal life. During a recent appearance on Kaun Banega Crorepati, hosted by Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh revealed a deeply emotional reason why he stayed away from visiting Kashmir for most of his life—a touching promise he made to his late father during his childhood.

Opening up on the show, Shah Rukh shared that his paternal grandmother was from Kashmir, making the region especially meaningful for his family. He recalled a heartfelt conversation with his father who told him, “There are three places you must see in life — Istanbul, Rome, and Kashmir. You can see Istanbul and Rome without me if I’m not around, but don’t visit Kashmir without me.” That powerful request left a lasting impression on a young Shah Rukh, shaping a silent vow he carried into adulthood.

Shah Rukh admitted that even though he had traveled across the globe, he always avoided visiting Kashmir. Despite numerous invitations from friends and family over the years, he honored his father’s words. “I had many chances — vacations, work trips — but I never went. My father had promised he would show me Kashmir himself, and after he passed away early, I could never bring myself to go without him,” Shah Rukh said, offering fans a rare glimpse into his emotional world.

However, some fans were quick to point out that Shah Rukh did visit Kashmir during the filming of Yash Chopra’s Jab Tak Hai Jaan in 2012. Picturesque scenes from Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Ladakh, and Pangong Lake featured prominently in the movie. Observers online clarified that while Shah Rukh had indeed set foot in Kashmir for professional reasons, it was not the same as fulfilling the personal journey he had envisioned with his father. Many fans also noted that his bond with Yash Chopra, whom Shah Rukh considered a mentor and father figure, might have made that visit emotionally significant in a different way.

Through this story, Shah Rukh Khan once again reminded audiences why he remains so deeply loved. His unwavering respect for his father’s wishes and the sincerity with which he treats personal promises showcase a grounded, genuine side of the superstar—making his connection with fans even more heartfelt.