During a star-studded event at the Joy Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Bollywood icons Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Aamir Khan came together to share anecdotes about their decades-long friendship, their illustrious careers, and the experiences that have shaped them into the stars they are today. While the gathering offered a nostalgic trip through the journeys of three of Indian cinema’s most celebrated actors, one of the most talked-about moments came when Salman Khan spoke about Shah Rukh Khan’s son, Aryan Khan, and his directorial debut, The Ba**ds of Bollywood*.

The event, which brought together an audience of fans and industry insiders, was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and behind-the-scenes revelations about the lives of Bollywood’s biggest names. Among these moments, Salman Khan took the stage to share his admiration for Aryan Khan, whose web series has quickly garnered attention for its fresh perspective and satirical take on the film industry. According to Salman, Aryan has approached his debut project with maturity and creativity, reflecting both his talent and the influence of his upbringing. “Aryan made a web show, The Ba**ds of Bollywood*. It has done really, really well. So now his upbringing is the same! He did not want to… I would rather have him in front of the camera, and super serious father… and like I said earlier, Aryan will be the only person he will be happy with if Aryan succeeds him,” Salman said, praising both Aryan’s work ethic and Shah Rukh’s guidance as a parent.

Salman’s remarks prompted laughter and camaraderie on stage. Shah Rukh Khan, taking the moment in good humor, added, “Or if Salman has a son! Then I would like him to be the biggest star ever in the history of mankind. So we are working on that. But like Salman said, all the youngsters now are very video-literate and it has helped Aryan a lot.” This lighthearted exchange not only showcased the friendship between these Bollywood heavyweights but also highlighted the pride and encouragement that parents like Shah Rukh Khan extend to their children as they carve their own paths in the industry.

Aryan Khan’s web series, The Ba**ds of Bollywood*, has become a talking point among viewers and critics alike. A satirical take on the Hindi film industry, the show delves into the complex power dynamics, rivalries, and struggles that define Bollywood. It explores the challenges faced by outsiders trying to find their footing and remain relevant in a world dominated by legacy, influence, and high expectations. Through sharp writing, engaging performances, and clever cameo appearances, Aryan has crafted a series that resonates with audiences while offering a witty critique of the industry he was born into.

The show features an ensemble cast, including Lakshya and Sahher Bambba in lead roles, along with Anya Singh, Raghav Juyal, Bobby Deol, Mona Singh, and Manoj Pahwa in pivotal parts. Each actor brings depth and authenticity to their roles, effectively portraying the nuances and eccentricities of Bollywood life. Critics have praised the series for its writing, which balances satire with relatability, and for Aryan’s direction, which demonstrates a clear understanding of storytelling and visual narrative. The show is available for streaming on Netflix, making it accessible to a wide audience eager to explore the behind-the-scenes drama of the Hindi film industry.

Salman Khan’s appreciation of Aryan’s work also reflects a broader sentiment in Bollywood regarding the younger generation of filmmakers. Unlike traditional cinema, which often adheres to formulaic storytelling and star-centric narratives, web series and digital content have empowered young creators to experiment with style, content, and genre. Aryan, growing up in an environment steeped in cinema, has leveraged this exposure to craft a show that is both innovative and rooted in an understanding of the industry’s inner workings. His directorial debut demonstrates the potential of young filmmakers to blend heritage, modern storytelling techniques, and satire in a way that appeals to both critics and audiences.

Beyond the discussion of Aryan’s achievements, the Joy Forum event highlighted the enduring friendships and mutual respect among Salman, Shah Rukh, and Aamir. Despite having carved individual paths and achieved monumental success over decades, the three actors shared anecdotes that revealed their camaraderie, collaborative spirit, and the occasional humorous rivalry that has defined their relationships. These stories, combined with moments like the praise for Aryan Khan, provided audiences with an intimate glimpse into the personal and professional lives of some of Bollywood’s most influential figures.

Salman’s comments on Aryan’s upbringing also underscore the balance that celebrity parents strive to maintain while raising children in the public eye. Shah Rukh Khan, often regarded as one of the most iconic figures in Indian cinema, has been praised for instilling a sense of discipline, responsibility, and creative curiosity in his son. The actor’s description of himself as a “super serious father” highlights the seriousness with which he approaches parenting, especially in preparing his children to navigate the challenges of fame and public scrutiny. Aryan’s success with The Ba**ds of Bollywood* can be seen as a reflection of this upbringing, combining guidance, support, and encouragement with the freedom to explore one’s own creative voice.

The series itself has been lauded not only for its satirical take on Bollywood but also for its exploration of ambition, identity, and resilience. Through its characters and story arcs, the show examines how individuals navigate a competitive, image-driven industry while staying true to their values and personal goals. This thematic focus resonates with viewers who appreciate storytelling that is both entertaining and insightful, offering commentary on the realities of the film world without losing sight of humor and drama. Aryan Khan’s ability to balance these elements has been recognized as a significant accomplishment for a first-time director, signaling a promising career in filmmaking.

Furthermore, the event and Aryan’s work highlight the evolving dynamics of Bollywood, where legacy and mentorship intersect with innovation and fresh perspectives. While actors like Shah Rukh, Salman, and Aamir continue to dominate mainstream cinema, the rise of web-based content has opened avenues for young creators to experiment, challenge conventions, and reach global audiences. Aryan’s success exemplifies this trend, showcasing how familiarity with industry practices, coupled with a contemporary approach to storytelling, can result in content that is both culturally resonant and commercially successful.

In conclusion, the Joy Forum event in Riyadh was more than a celebration of Bollywood legends; it was a testament to the continuity of creative talent across generations. Salman Khan’s praise for Aryan Khan and his thoughtful reflections on parenting and guidance highlighted the ways in which legacy, mentorship, and personal growth converge in the world of cinema. The Ba**ds of Bollywood* stands as a milestone in Aryan’s career, demonstrating his ability to direct, conceptualize, and execute a series that is both engaging and reflective of the industry’s realities. As audiences stream the show on Netflix and critics continue to review its merits, it is clear that Aryan Khan has established himself as a promising filmmaker with a distinctive voice, supported by the guidance of a father whose seriousness and dedication have helped shape his creative journey.

Through humor, insight, and heartfelt appreciation, the event captured the essence of Bollywood’s evolving landscape, where tradition meets innovation, and where the next generation of filmmakers carries forward the legacy of its icons while carving out their own unique identity. Aryan Khan’s debut is not just a continuation of his family’s cinematic legacy; it is also a reflection of the opportunities, challenges, and creative possibilities that define the future of Indian entertainment.