Filmmaker Hemanth Madhukar has weighed in on the ongoing social media debate surrounding the stardom of Shah Rukh Khan and Prabhas, asserting that SRK remains “inarguably the biggest superstar in India.” His comments come in response to the backlash triggered by the concept video of director Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s upcoming film Spirit, which introduced Prabhas as “India’s Biggest Superstar.”
The tagline sparked immediate reactions from Shah Rukh Khan’s fanbase, who took to social media to challenge the claim and defend their idol’s legacy. Many fans argued that SRK’s decades-long dominance in Indian cinema, global recognition, and consistent box office success make him the rightful bearer of the title.
Addressing the controversy, Hemanth Madhukar stated, “It was an obvious reaction since fans are quite sensitive about their favourite stars. There’s no doubt that Shah Rukh Khan is inarguably the biggest superstar in India, given his unmatched popularity and contribution to cinema”.
The debate has reignited discussions about fan culture, regional cinema dynamics, and the evolving definitions of stardom in the digital age. While Prabhas has gained pan-India appeal through blockbusters like Baahubali and Salaar, SRK’s legacy spans over three decades with a global fanbase and iconic status.
Industry insiders suggest that such comparisons, while inevitable, often reflect marketing strategies rather than objective assessments. Madhukar’s statement adds a voice of clarity amid the noise, reaffirming SRK’s enduring stature in Indian cinema.
