New Delhi: Shah Rukh Khan has been named the Indian of the Year 2023 at the CNN-News18 Indian of the Year awards. The actor was present at the prestigious awards ceremony among other distinguished guests and accepted the honour from the esteemed jury. This marked Shah Rukh Khan’s first-ever media appearance since 2019.

In his heartfelt acceptance speech, he spoke about his career, box office and his consistent hunger for success, among many other things. The event witnessed Khan’s poignant words resonating with the audience, showcasing his enduring impact and influence not only in cinema but also in the hearts of millions across the nation.

The King Khan also delighted the audience by joining an a capella group on stage as they paid a tribute to him through renditions of his iconic songs.

While on stage, SRK shared a candid moment with Mani Ratnam, renowned filmmaker and recipient of CNN-News18 Indian of the year – Entertainment honour, as he requested the ‘Dil Se’ filmmaker to make a movie with him again.

“Mani sir, what now?” he said, adding, “It’s all come out in the open now. I’m requesting you – I’m begging you – I’m telling you every time! Do a film with me, I swear, I will dance on top of a plane on Chhaiya Chhaiya, if you’d tell me.”

To this, Mani Ratnam said he will do a film with SRK when the actor buys a plane. To this, Shah Rukh Khan said, “Mani, the way my films are going…this plane is not far away. I’m coming!”