A light-hearted social media exchange between actor Shah Rukh Khan and Congress MP Shashi Tharoor drew widespread attention on Tuesday, as the superstar responded to the politician’s humorous birthday message. The interaction, filled with SRK’s trademark wit, delighted fans and showcased the actor’s good humour as he turned 60.
Tharoor’s ‘Benjamin Button’ birthday wish
On Monday, Shashi Tharoor had posted a tongue-in-cheek message on X (formerly Twitter) to wish the actor. The politician joked that he found SRK’s age “deeply suspicious,” suggesting that the star might be ageing in reverse like the character from The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.
“I suspect the official story is a cover-up and that SRK is actually starring in a real-life, decades-long, global-scale Bollywood adaptation of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. He’s ageing in reverse,” Tharoor wrote.
He further added, “I predict by the time he hits his ‘70th’ birthday, he’ll be auditioning for teenage roles. Mercifully, I don’t expect to be around when he turns into a child star.”
SRK’s playful response
Shah Rukh Khan, known for his sharp sense of humour, responded directly to Tharoor’s post on Tuesday. He wrote, “Thank you. Although I’m sure you will be around to see me playing the ‘child star’ and I will copy your hairstyle then. Ha ha…(sic).”
The friendly banter quickly went viral, with fans praising both the actor’s wit and Tharoor’s creative compliment. Many social media users called it one of the most “wholesome and entertaining” celebrity interactions of the year.
Heartfelt replies to industry friends
Throughout the day, the Pathaan actor also replied to a number of birthday messages from his industry colleagues.
When actor Akshay Kumar wished him, SRK responded, “Thank you Akki for singing Happy Birthday to me. You’ve taught me the secret to looking good and thinking smart. Ab Khiladi ki taraah jaldi uthna bhi sikhaade. Ha ha.”
To actress Kajol, his Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge co-star, he wrote, “Took your advice, didn’t count the candles. In fact, they didn’t even put them. Ha ha, love you too much!”
His message to Juhi Chawla read, “Thank you, Juhi, thoughtful as always. Tell me the next good cause on the agenda that you will follow, and I will follow it too. Lots of love.”
The actor also thanked veteran performer Anupam Kher, replying, “Thank you @AnupamPKher for the heartfelt video. Big hugs and lots of love to you always. Some of the fondest memories in my journey of films are with you. I hold you in the highest regard. Love u. (And yes, we must find ways to spend more time, maybe a film would be nice.)”
Private celebrations in Mumbai
This year, SRK opted for an intimate birthday celebration at his Bandra residence, Mannat. The actor hosted a small, closed-door event for close friends and fans. He cut a three-tier cake and posed for group photos with attendees. Later in the evening, he greeted hundreds of fans gathered outside his home, waving to the crowd from his balcony — a birthday ritual that has become a hallmark of his celebrations over the years.
The superstar’s enduring charm
Even as he entered his 60s, Shah Rukh Khan’s enduring charm and humour continue to captivate audiences. From his witty replies to heartfelt acknowledgements, SRK once again reminded fans why he remains one of India’s most loved entertainers — both on and off screen.