Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – At the Joy Forum 2025 in Riyadh, Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan playfully dismissed the notion that he was an outsider to the Hindi film industry, affectionately declaring that superstars Salman Khan and Aamir Khan's families are his own. The three Khans, rarely seen together, shared the stage, discussing their careers and the evolution of Bollywood.

The moment unfolded when Salman Khan lauded Shah Rukh's success, emphasizing his journey from Delhi without a film background. "Aamir comes from a film background, and so do I, but this man here (Shah Rukh Khan) didn't. He came from Delhi and struggled,” Salman said.

Shah Rukh, however, interjected with a smile, "May I interrupt, Salman, sorry. I also come from a film family. Salman's family is my family, and Aamir's family is my family. That's why I'm a star". Aamir Khan then quipped, "So now you know how Shah Rukh is a star," eliciting cheers from the audience.

This lighthearted exchange resonated deeply with fans, highlighting the camaraderie and mutual respect between the three actors who have shaped Bollywood for decades. The "Three Khans" – Shah Rukh, Salman, and Aamir – have dominated the Indian box office since the 1990s. Their combined careers boast numerous blockbuster films and critical acclaim, solidifying their status as not just stars, but cultural icons.

The discussion also touched upon the "insider vs outsider" debate prevalent in the film industry. Shah Rukh has previously addressed this topic, emphasizing that success is determined by hard work and determination, not by one's background. He shared that when he entered the industry, he believed it was his world and that he was welcomed with open arms. He stressed the importance of self-belief and dedication in making a mark.

Deepika Padukone echoed similar sentiments at a seminar in Mumbai on May 2nd, emphasizing perseverance and continuous effort. She highlighted the welcoming nature of the industry and the importance of family in staying grounded.

The three Khans also made cameo appearances in Aryan Khan's web series, The Ba*ds of Bollywood. Salman acknowledged his own position as a conventional "insider," being the son of celebrated producer and scriptwriter Salim Khan.

The appearance of Shah Rukh, Salman and Aamir at the Joy Forum has fueled speculation among fans about a potential future collaboration, with many expressing their desire to see the trio on screen together.