Web Desk: Veteran Pakistani actor Javed Sheikh has shared a memorable story from his experience in Bollywood, revealing that he initially refused to accept payment for his role in the 2007 blockbuster Om Shanti Om. The celebrated actor said appearing in the film alongside Shah Rukh Khan was itself a priceless opportunity and one of the proudest moments of his career.
Speaking during a recent interview, Sheikh recalled that portraying Shah Rukh Khan’s father in the film was an honour he never expected. He said being selected as a Pakistani actor for such a high-profile Bollywood production meant more to him than any financial reward.
According to Sheikh, when discussions about his remuneration took place, he politely informed the filmmakers that he did not wish to charge a fee. He explained that he would have been happy to accept only one rupee as a symbolic payment because the experience itself was invaluable.
However, director Farah Khan and Shah Rukh Khan rejected the idea, insisting that he receive a proper professional fee. Sheikh said their decision reflected the respect and appreciation they had for artists, adding that the gesture left a lasting impression on him.
The veteran actor also praised Shah Rukh Khan for his kindness and professionalism throughout the filming process. He described the Bollywood superstar as a gracious host who made sure every member of the cast felt comfortable. Sheikh said Shah Rukh personally looked after him on the set and treated him with warmth and genuine friendship.
Reflecting on his interactions with Farah Khan, Sheikh said the director maintained a welcoming environment during production and valued every actor’s contribution regardless of the size of the role. He credited both Farah and Shah Rukh for making his Bollywood experience memorable.
During the interview, Sheikh also looked back on the struggles that shaped his acting career. He revealed that his family, particularly his father, initially opposed his ambition to enter the entertainment industry. As a young man, he secretly visited Radio Pakistan to pursue his passion for acting because he feared his family’s reaction.
He recalled that his father strongly disapproved of his dream and once tore one of his shirts after accusing him of wanting to become a film hero. Despite the opposition, Sheikh remained determined to follow his passion and continued searching for opportunities in television and film.
The actor admitted that success did not come easily. His debut film, Dhamaka, released in 1974, failed at the box office, leading to several difficult years in the industry. During that period, he took on other jobs to support himself while continuing to audition and build his acting career.
Sheikh also remembered another disappointing phase when producers considered replacing him in the film Bivi Ho To Aisi. He said distributors feared his earlier commercial failures would negatively affect the movie’s performance, leaving him deeply disappointed.
Despite repeated setbacks, Sheikh refused to give up. His breakthrough came with the immensely popular television drama Ankahi, which earned him widespread recognition in Pakistan and later introduced him to audiences across the border. The drama became a turning point, opening new opportunities in television and cinema.
Looking back on his decades-long journey, Sheikh said he never measured his success against other actors. Instead, he focused on improving his craft and staying committed to hard work. He believes that consistency, patience and dedication helped him overcome failures and remain relevant in the entertainment industry.
Today, Javed Sheikh is regarded as one of Pakistan’s most respected actors, with an extensive career spanning television, film and international productions. His reflections on Om Shanti Om offer a glimpse into the mutual respect shared by artists across borders and highlight the professionalism that continues to define his remarkable journey in showbiz.
