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Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, one of Bollywood’s most versatile actors, has left a lasting impression with his powerful performances in films like Tanu Weds Manu Returns, Jannat 2, and Raees. Known for bringing depth and authenticity to every role, he has shared the screen with Shah Rukh Khan in two memorable projects, a collaboration he says changed his life. But the journey wasn’t always smooth.

At one point, Ayyub was on the verge of quitting acting altogether, worn down by the struggles and uncertainties of the film industry.

In a recent interview with Digital Commentary, he opened up about how one heartfelt interaction with Shah Rukh Khan gave him the motivation and confidence to keep pursuing his passion.

Here’s everything about it!

Zeeshan Ayyub on how SRK sensed his struggles

Instagram/mohdzeeshanayyub

Zeeshan played SRK’s friend, Sadiq Ibrahim, in Raees.

Recalling his experience, Zeeshan said, "Kuch toh kiya tha uss aadmi ne, badal diya tha andar se. Jab unhone mujhe dekha toh scan kar liya tha ki bhut pereshaan hai aur main tha. I was almost on the verge of quitting acting and leaving, thinking I can’t do this anymore" (He must have done something; he had changed me from within. When he looked at me, he sensed I was very troubled – and I was. I was almost on the verge of quitting acting and leaving, thinking I couldn’t do it anymore).

Zeeshan Ayyub on how SRK stopped him from quitting Bollywood

Red Chillies Entertainment

He further shared that he was being typecast in Bollywood and had grown weary of repeatedly portraying similar characters.

"I was bored of playing the same kind of roles. Then I thought, if I have to sign off, I’ll do it with a film alongside Shah Rukh Khan. At least if I retire, I’ll have a film with SRK. Unhone haath milaya, toh actually negativity nikal gayi thi. I was like abhi toh bahut kaam karna hai. Unhone rok liya and he made sure ki yahan par kaam kar aur sab badia hoga" (When he shook my hand, the negativity actually went away. I felt like I still had a lot of work to do. He stopped me and made sure I stayed, telling me, “Work here and everything will be fine”).

Raees was a 2017 action drama directed by Rahul Dholakia and jointly produced by Red Chillies Entertainment and Excel Entertainment.

Starring Shah Rukh Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Mahira Khan, the film is set in Gujarat during the 1980s and 1990s.

Social and lead image credits: Red Chillies Entertainment

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