Shah Rukh Khan: I am Akbar, Deepika is Amar, John is Anthony, this is our national unity

After the monstrous success of Pathaan, its leads Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone and John Abraham interacted for the first time with the media on Monday.

Spreading a message of love and unity, Shah Rukh said, “Whoever makes a film, the mission is to spread happiness, brotherhood love and kindness. Even if I am playing like a character in Darr or in Baazigar or if John is being bad in a film, none of us are bad. We are all playing characters to make you happy.”

“If we say anything in a film, none of it is meant to hurt any sentiments or anybody.”

Centering religious unity in his trademark fun, quirky manner, Shah Rukh added, “Deepika Padukone is Amar, I am Akbar and John Abraham is Anthony. There are no differences that any of us have for anyone, any culture or any aspect of life. We love you, that’s why we make films.”

During the event, Shah Rukh praised John for his performance and even jokingly kissed him on the cheek. Returning the praise, John said, “I don't think he (Shah Rukh Khan) is an actor anymore, he is an emotion. Which is why I nearly went to kiss him in many scenes (laughs). I have worked with Deepika earlier, and it's amazing to work with her. The songs feature one of the most beautiful men and the most beautiful woman (Deepika Padukone)," John continued.

“I used to think I am an action hero, but today Shah Rukh is the biggest action hero in the country. He is so good at action and I remember I told him that you are the national treasure of the country and I can't hit you. Overall, he was just confident and fantastic with action sequences. Pathaan will be my biggest hit for a long time,” he added.

Pathaan is directed by Siddharth Anand and released on January 25, last Wednesday. It made a business of Rs 542 crore (gross) in five days