Shah Rukh Khan's birthday is always a big day on Indian social media. This year, it also comes just seven weeks before his next film reaches theatres, so several of the wishes doubled as early promotion for 'King'.
One of the most talked-about messages came from Riteish Deshmukh. As SRK turned 61 on November 2, Riteish posted a birthday wish that also included his own prediction for the box office.
"Happy Birthday Sha Bhai @iamsrk - you are and forever will be the King of all our hearts….Have a tremendous day filled with laughter and love- KING has blockbuster written all over it- can't wait for the magic to storm the theatres on 24th Dec. I love you !!! #HappyBirthdaySRK," Riteish wrote.
The 'Masti' actor also shared some of his favourite memories with Shah Rukh. His use of the word "King" works on two levels: it is the nickname fans have given SRK for decades, and it is the title of his next film.
Genelia's 'Bigggg Bear Hug'
Riteish's wife, actress Genelia Deshmukh, also posted a message full of affection and excitement for the film.
"Happy Birthday Dearest @iamsrk We love you so so much and always will I truly truly can't wait for King - See you soon - Bigggg Bear hug," she wrote.
Her post included a picture of the couple sharing a warm hug with Shah Rukh. The Deshmukhs have a long-standing friendship with the 'Dilwale' actor, built on mutual admiration and many memorable moments over the years, and fans often cheer when the three are seen together.
Why this birthday feels different
The excitement makes sense. 'King', directed by Siddharth Anand, is SRK's first big-screen release since 'Dunki' in 2023, which means fans have waited almost three years to see him in theatres. The film is also Suhana Khan's theatrical debut, and it reunites SRK with the director of 'Pathaan'.
It is scheduled to release on December 24, 2026, during the Christmas holiday season, when theatres usually see some of their biggest crowds. Because the release is so close, this year's birthday messages from colleagues have read more like early reviews of the film's prospects than routine greetings.
Wishes from across the industry
Many members of the film industry sent their wishes to Shah Rukh. Deepshikha Nagpal, who acted with him in 'Baadshah', shared a nostalgic note.
"Happy birthday to our one and only king khan @iamsrk keep shining and as every year is my wish to work with you again. #amen..," she wrote.
Her message shows how much SRK still means to people he worked with decades ago. Industry colleagues who rarely appear in the headlines still hope to share the screen with him again.
With 'King' coming in December and fans already marking the date, SRK's 61st birthday has effectively started the countdown to one of the year's most awaited releases.
This story is based on posts shared by Riteish Deshmukh, Genelia Deshmukh and Deepshikha Nagpal on their official social media accounts.
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