Look at all the other politicians who left acting careers which they thought were ending to join parliament. What happened to them? Most of them have been sidelined and humiliated. It is only their personal goodwill, built up not as politicians but as screen idols, which has given them the respect they deserve.

But the main reason I disagree with Shobhaa is when she says that you have ‘done’ with acting. I think you still have a long, long way to go. You gave us a taste of your acting skills, when you played your age as Kabir Khan in Chak De India. In fact, for many years you have simply gone with the flow and played Shah Rukh Superstar in most of your films. Obviously, you have not got the challenging roles you deserve. Why not invest some time in developing those roles now?

Shah Rukh, more people believe in your cinema than they believe in any politician. More people can be influenced by you the entertainer than the neta.

I know political parties will be falling over backwards to lure you into their lair. They will tell you how much of a difference you can make if you simply back them or their policies. But Shah Rukh, they need you more than you need them. And once they have you in their grasp, you will be devalued. This is the time to stand back and say that your fans who have supported your career, bought tickets for your shows, also deserve your respect. They have voted you in as a Superstar, as an actor. Let them carry on voting for you as just that.

... contd.