Pakistani actor Javed Sheikh reveals why he asked for only Rs. 1 as remuneration for Om Shanti Om: “It was a matter of honour for me that I am playing Shah Rukh’s father in his biggest film ever”

In a recent interview, the Pakistani actor revealed that he wanted just Rs. 1 for the movie as remuneration because he was honoured to work with Shah Rukh Khan.

By Bollywood Hungama News Network -

June 4, 2023 - 10:56 AM IST

Pakistani actor Javed Sheikh played the role of Shah Rukh Khan’s father in Om Shanti Om which was released in 2007. Helmed by Farah Khan, the movie marked the debut of Deepika Padukone and was a story of reincarnation. In the latter half of the movie, Sheikh played the role of Rajesh Kapoor, father to a star named Om Kapoor, played by SRK. In a recent interview, the Pakistani actor revealed that he wanted just Rs. 1 for the movie as remuneration because he was honoured to work with Shah Rukh Khan.

Pakistani actor Javed Sheikh reveals why he asked for only Rs. 1 as remuneration for Om Shanti Om: “It was a matter of honour for me that I am playing Shah Rukh’s father in his biggest film ever”

In an interview with Gloss Etc, Javed Sheikh recently spoke about his experience working on Om Shanti Om. Speaking in Urdu, he said that he was roped in for the Farah Khan directorial and he refused to take any fee. He said, “Their manager came to me, and said they needed to sign the contract. I said, ‘Yes’. ‘What will be your fee?’ I said I won't take any money. The thing is that firstly it was a matter of honour for me that I am playing Shah Rukh's father in his biggest film ever. India has so many actors. You choose anyone and they will be ready to take on this role. But Shah Rukh and Farah Khan choosing me is a thing of honour for me. That’s why, because of Farah and Shah Rukh, I will not take any money.”

He said that the manager refused to listen to Sheikh and said that it was against the protocols. After a long discussion, Sheikh suggested, “You go and tell Shah Rukh I will take just one rupee. I'm not joking.” He said then the makers of the movie decided how much remuneration to pay him. “When they sent me the first cheque, it was shocking itself.”

Eventually, Javed Sheikh also worked in movies like My Name Is Anthony Gonsalves and Namastey London. However, India banned Pakistani artists a few years ago. When asked if he would work in Indian films again, he said, “Our political relations with Hindustan are not well these days, ever since BJP came into power. Maybe it will be better if a party other than BJP comes into power.”

Om Shanti Om released in 2007. The film also starred Arjun Rampal, Shreyas Talpade, and Kirron Kher, among others.