My memories of Mangaluru are fresh even today: Shah Rukh Khan

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Jun 26, 2026: Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan fondly recalled his childhood memories of Mangaluru during his visit to the coastal city, saying the experience had brought back cherished moments from his early years.

"Mangaluru is the city where I spent part of my childhood. Coming back here has refreshed those beautiful memories, and God willing, I hope to create many more memories here," Shah Rukh said while addressing the audience at ’An Evening with Shah Rukh Khan’, organised by city’s leading builder firm Rohan Corporation at Adyar Garden in Mangaluru on Thursday evening.

Visiting Mangaluru for the first time since becoming a Bollywood icon, Shah Rukh said he was overwhelmed by the affection shown by fans.

"Mangaluru is a beautiful city. From the moment I landed at the airport until I reached this stage, I have been showered with immense love. I enjoy spending time here and relishing Neer Dosa," he said. He also praised the city’s rich culture and noted that many people from Mangaluru have made Mumbai their home. "I would love to keep visiting Mangaluru from time to time," he added.

’I Would Have Been a Teacher in Mangaluru’

During an interactive session, Shah Rukh was asked what career he would have chosen had he not entered the film industry.

"I would probably have loved to be a teacher at St. Aloysius or Mount Carmel here," he replied, drawing loud applause from the audience.

The actor also encouraged young people to dream big, believe in themselves, and work hard to achieve their goals. He praised Mangaluru for its hospitality, culture, and rapid development.

Fans Waited for Hours

Although Shah Rukh was scheduled to arrive at 6 pm, enthusiastic fans began gathering at the venue as early as 3 pm. His arrival was delayed until around 8 pm, but thousands of fans waited patiently for nearly five hours to catch a glimpse of their favourite star.

Earlier in the evening, Shah Rukh landed in Mangaluru from Mumbai on a private jet, where he was greeted by cheering fans at the airport. He acknowledged the crowd by waving and blowing flying kisses. Tight security arrangements were made by the police and private security personnel throughout the event.

’Namaskara Kudla... Encha Ullar’

Winning hearts with his attempt at the local Tulu language, Shah Rukh greeted the audience with "Namaskara Kudla... Encha Ullar?" (Hello Mangaluru... How are you?) and concluded his speech with "Preethi Uppad" (Let there be love).

He also shared that his grandfather had worked as an engineer at the Mangaluru Port.

"I don’t remember much from that time, but I have some old photographs of this place," he said while displaying the photographs on stage, receiving thunderous applause from the audience.

Keeping the atmosphere lively, Shah Rukh joked, "If you get bored during this conversation, let me know—I will entertain you," before dancing briefly to his hit songs Chammak Challo and Tujhe Dekha Toh Yeh Jaana Sanam. Thousands of fans captured the memorable moments on their smartphones.

Salman Ali Enthrals the Audience

The evening also featured a performance by Indian Idol fame singer Salman Ali, who entertained the crowd with several popular songs. Fans danced enthusiastically to Shah Rukh Khan’s iconic tracks, including Chaiyya Chaiyya, Koi Mil Gaya, and Tumse Milke Dil Ka Jo Haal.