Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, referred to as the King Khan of the Indian film industry, has topped a UK list of the ‘Top 50 Asian Celebrities in the World’.
The 58-year-old actor, who had double box-office success this year with action thrillers Pathaan and Jawan, is currently preparing for the Christmas release of comedy drama Dunki. Khan beat off tough competition to make it to the annual list published by UK weekly Eastern Eye on Friday.
“By the time 2023 ends, King Khan will become the first leading man from the modern era to have three huge Bollywood blockbuster hits in a calendar year,” said Eastern Eye entertainment editor Asjad Nazir, who compiled the list previewed in London.
Alia Bhatt came in second for her impact in Bollywood and Hollywood and also for being a strong role model for working mothers. Third placed Priyanka Chopra Jonas, the most famous Indian on the planet, has been recognised for her ground-breaking work on the international stage, including with big-budget series Citadel, Hollywood film Love Again, humanitarian work and lighting up the red carpet globally. Fourth placed Diljit Dosanjh confirmed his place as the biggest Punjabi star, with stunning work as an actor and singer, which included cinema, major crossover international music collaborations and a path-breaking performance at the prestigious Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in California. Fifth placed Charli XCX from the UK was the biggest singing star internationally of a South Asian heritage and accomplished a lot this year, from super single releases to blockbuster live performances globally.
She is followed by Ranbir Kapoor (sixth) for delivering the year’s most impactful movie performance with blockbuster hit “Animal”.
The oldest star in the list is 81-year-old Amitabh Bachchan (35th) and the youngest is 20-year-old television star Sumbul Touqeer (44th), who said: “Being included in the annual list with so many distinguished international names feels great. (PTI)
