Veteran Pakistani actor Javed Sheikh has surprised fans by revealing why he agreed to work with Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan for just one rupee during the filming of the 2007 blockbuster Om Shanti Om.
Speaking on Wasay Chaudhry's podcast, Javed Sheikh described his experience of working alongside Shah Rukh Khan as "excellent and superb," adding that words alone cannot fully describe the actor's kindness and generosity.
Reflecting on those memories, Sheikh said Shah Rukh's humble nature and warm personality left a lasting impression on him.
Recalling how he became part of the film, Javed Sheikh revealed that director Farah Khan personally offered him the role of Shah Rukh Khan's father. When the production team later approached him to sign the contract and discuss his remuneration, he surprised everyone by refusing to accept payment for the film.
According to Sheikh, he told the team that being selected for such an important role in a major Bollywood production was already an honour. He explained that representing Pakistan in a film of that scale meant far more to him than financial compensation.
When the production manager insisted that a professional actor could not work without payment, Javed Sheikh responded with a smile, saying he would accept only one rupee. His unexpected gesture reportedly surprised both Farah Khan and Shah Rukh Khan.
Javed Sheikh shared that the filmmakers appreciated his sincerity but refused to let him work for such a symbolic amount. Instead, they chose to pay him a fee that exceeded his expectations. Looking back on the experience, the veteran actor said the respect, generosity, and warm hospitality he received from Shah Rukh Khan throughout the shoot remain among his fondest memories of the film.
The heartwarming story quickly gained attention online, with fans praising it as a beautiful example of mutual respect and admiration between two celebrated artists from across the border.
With a career spanning more than four decades, Javed Sheikh remains one of Pakistan's most respected actors, directors, and filmmakers. From memorable performances in Pakistani television and cinema to notable appearances in Bollywood productions, he continues to be admired for his remarkable contribution to the entertainment industry.