Shah Rukh Khan has long been regarded as the undisputed "King of Bollywood," and 2023 only cemented his legacy further. With three back-to-back blockbusters—Pathaan, Jawan, and Dunki—SRK dominated the box office like never before. Jawan even went on to become the highest-grossing Bollywood film of the year.

But if you think this level of success is new for Shah Rukh, think again. He pulled off a similar box office coup 27 years ago with a film that not only became the top earner of its time but also outperformed movies starring megastars like Amitabh Bachchan and Govinda.

'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai': A Game-Changer in 1998

Released on October 16, 1998, during the festive season of Diwali, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai wasn't just a movie - it wasn’t just a movie—it was a phenomenon. With a modest budget of ₹10 crore, the film went on to earn a whopping ₹106 crore worldwide, making it the highest-grossing Hindi film of 1998.

Directed by Karan Johar in his directorial debut and produced by Yash Johar, the film brought together a powerful trio: Shah Rukh Khan as Rahul Khanna, Kajol as Anjali Sharma, and Rani Mukerji as Tina Malhotra. Their chemistry, combined with a heartfelt story and memorable music, struck a chord with audiences of all ages.

Beating the Big Names: Bachchan and Govinda Left Behind

In a year packed with Bollywood heavyweights, Shah Rukh Khan's Kuch Kuch Hota Hai emerged as the clear winner. Even films featuring two of the biggest stars of that era—Amitabh Bachchan and Govinda—couldn’t come close to its success.

• ‘Dulhe Raja’, starring Govinda, secured the second spot in box office collections for 1998.
• ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’, a comedy-action entertainer featuring both Amitabh and Govinda, came in third. Despite its popularity and a similar ₹10 crore budget, it only managed to earn around ₹35 crore worldwide, a far cry from the numbers Kuch Kuch Hota Hai achieved.

A Legacy That Continues

Even today, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai holds a special place in the hearts of Bollywood lovers. The film not only defined 90s cinema but also helped shape Shah Rukh Khan’s image as the ultimate romantic hero. With iconic dialogues, timeless music, and heartfelt emotions, it became much more than a film—it became a part of pop culture.

Fast forward to 2023, and SRK once again proved why he's still at the top of his game. From breaking records to creating unforgettable cinematic experiences, his journey from Rahul Khanna to Vikram Rathore and Hardy is a testament to his unmatched stardom.

Final Word

From the romantic drama of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai to the high-octane thrillers of 2023, Shah Rukh Khan has shown that box office success is not about trends—it's about timeless charm, stellar storytelling, and the ability to connect with millions. And whether it’s beating legends like Amitabh and Govinda or setting new records, SRK continues to reign supreme in Bollywood’s ever-changing landscape.