Shah Rukh Khan receives Lifetime Achievement Award at 77th Locarno Film Festival; says, “Thank you for welcoming me with such wide arms”

Global Icon Shah Rukh Khan was celebrated at the 77th Locarno Film Festival, receiving the Pardo Alla Carriera award, recognizing his immense contributions to the world of cinema. The event, held in the stunning Piazza Grande, saw an 8000-strong crowd gather to witness the legendary actor’s acceptance speech.

Dressed impeccably in a black ensemble, Shah Rukh Khan radiated his signature charm as he took to the stage. Addressing the enthusiastic audience, SRK opened with a light-hearted quip: “Thank you all for welcoming me with such wide arms – wider than the ones I do on screen,” he joked, referencing his iconic open-armed pose that has become synonymous with his persona.

SRK reflected on the unique atmosphere of Locarno, remarking, “It’s a very beautiful, very cultural, very artistic, and extremely vibrant city,” he said, smiling at the crowd. “So many people crammed into a little square. It’s just like being home in India.”

Shah Rukh talks about art and cinema

Shah Rukh Khan’s journey in cinema has been marked by unparalleled success and range. From his early roles in films like Darr and Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge to his recent hits, Khan has redefined the art of storytelling in Bollywood. This achievement at Locarno not only highlights his global appeal but also his impact on cinema, where he has consistently blurred the lines between commercial success and artistic excellence.

During his speech, SRK didn’t miss a beat in embracing the moment, joking about the weight of the award, much to the delight of the audience. “This award here, which, for the life of me, I’ve been trying… I can’t pronounce,” he joked, playfully calling it the “Leopard award for being the most awesome in the world, in the history of humility and kindness and goodness.”

SRK then shared his deep admiration for the art of cinema, calling it the “most profound and influential artistic medium of our age.” He continued, “Art is the act of affirming life above all. It transcends every man-made boundary into a space of liberation. It doesn’t need to be political, polemical, or even moralizing. Art and cinema only need to express their truth from the heart.”

SRK says that he is improving his Italian

Reflecting on his 35-year career, SRK encapsulated the diversity of his filmography by stating, “I’ve been a villain, a champ, a superhero, a zero, a rejected fan, and a very resilient lover.” Amidst the cheers from the crowd, a fan’s loud declaration of love prompted a quick response from SRK. “I love you also. All dramatics continue after the serious speech,” he said with a grin, bringing the moment full circle with his trademark wit. He continued, sharing a bit of his day in Locarno: “My day has been wonderful, the food has been nice, my Italian is improving, and so has my cooking.” Khan then switched to Italian, translating his words: “I can cook pasta and pizza also. I’m learning here in Locarno.”

Concluding his speech, SRK expressed his gratitude, saying, “I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart and India. Namaskaar and dhanyawaad (Hello, thank you). God bless you all.”

The event was filled with energy, and the images captured during the festival – Khan’s beaming smile, the excited crowd, and the picturesque backdrop of Locarno – all contribute to the story of a night that cinephiles will remember for years to come. The Locarno Film Festival, with its rich history and tradition, once again showcased its ability to honour global cinema in grand style, with Shah Rukh Khan at the centre of it all.

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