Even after more than thirty years of living under constant public attention, Shah Rukh Khan continues to reveal unexpected sides of his personality. This time, it has nothing to do with box office numbers or iconic performances but a surprisingly specific personal habit that he follows with great seriousness. Filmmaker Karan Johar recently shared an anecdote that gave fans a rare glimpse into one of SRK’s quiet fixations, his uncompromising standards when it comes to the fit of jeans.
Speaking during a recent appearance on a talk show, Karan Johar opened up about his long-time friend and collaborator, describing how sharply observant Shah Rukh can be. According to him, SRK notices small details almost instantly, and the way someone dresses, especially in denim, does not escape his attention. What may seem trivial to others is something the actor genuinely cares about, often forming quick opinions based on it, much to the amusement of those around him.
Karan Johar explained that this habit doesn’t disappear even in personal spaces. Visiting Shah Rukh Khan at his home, Mannat, apparently comes with an unspoken awareness of being silently assessed. Karan joked that he often avoids wearing jeans altogether when he visits, knowing that SRK’s eyes would immediately scan the fit. If something looks even slightly off, it invites a sharp look or a pointed question, leaving Karan both amused and mildly nervous.
What makes this story even more interesting is how far back this obsession can be traced. Karan recalled that it began during their very first professional collaboration on the sets of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. At the time, Karan was working as an assistant director and had been entrusted with Shah Rukh Khan’s costumes. Observing SRK’s physique, he suggested switching to a particular denim brand that he felt would suit him better. The brand, however, was difficult to find in India in 1994, and Karan had to go out of his way to arrange it and justify his suggestion.
Shah Rukh was initially puzzled and skeptical about receiving such advice. Unsure why a young assistant was making fashion recommendations, he questioned it before turning to director Aditya Chopra for clarity. SRK asked Aditya who this mad guy is and why he is giving him this advice. In the words of SRK, “Kaun pagal aa gaya hai? Kaha se aya hai? Why is he giving me this advice?”
Aditya calmly explained Karan’s background (he is from south Bombay and these people have knowledge about it) and assured him that he knew what he was talking about. That moment, Karan believes, left a lasting impression on Shah Rukh Khan.
From that point on, denim became more than just clothing for the superstar. It turned into a detail he observes closely, a habit that has followed him from film sets to friendships, proving once again that even legends have their charming quirks.
