In the bustling world of Bollywood, where dreams often collide with harsh realities, actor Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub recently opened up about a pivotal moment that nearly ended his career. Known for his versatile supporting roles, Zeeshan credited superstar Shah Rukh Khan with reigniting his passion for acting during their collaboration on the 2017 film Raees. His heartfelt anecdote, shared in a candid interview, highlights the profound impact of mentorship in the industry.

A Glimpse into Raees: Plot, Cast, and Legacy

Raees, directed by Rahul Dholakia, is a gripping action-drama set against the backdrop of 1980s Gujarat, a state with strict prohibition laws. The story follows Raees Alam, a shrewd bootlegger who builds a liquor empire from scratch, only to face relentless pursuit from a determined cop. Shah Rukh Khan stars as the titular character, delivering a raw, intense performance that blends charisma with moral ambiguity. Pakistani actress Mahira Khan makes her Bollywood debut as Aasiya, Raees's supportive wife, while Nawazuddin Siddiqui shines as the no-nonsense IPS officer Majmudar. Zeeshan Ayyub plays Sadiq Ibrahim, Raees's loyal friend and confidant, adding depth to the narrative with his nuanced portrayal of brotherhood and loyalty.

Produced by Red Chillies Entertainment and Excel Entertainment, the film explores themes of ambition, crime, and redemption. Upon its release on January 25, 2017, Raees received positive reviews for its engaging storyline, powerful dialogues, and stellar soundtrack, including hits like "Zaalima." It proved to be a commercial hit, grossing over ₹281 crore worldwide despite clashing with another big release.

The Dark Phase: Why Zeeshan Wanted to Quit Acting

Before landing the role in Raees, Zeeshan was grappling with frustration and disillusionment. Having debuted in 2011 with No One Killed Jessica and built a reputation through films like Raanjhanaa and Tanu Weds Manu Returns, he found himself stuck in a rut. Typecasting became a major issue—he was repeatedly offered similar supporting characters that lacked variety, leading to boredom and self-doubt. "I can’t do this anymore," he recalled thinking, as the repetitive nature of his roles drained his enthusiasm for the craft.

Zeeshan reached a breaking point where quitting seemed like the only option. However, he held onto one final wish: to work with Shah Rukh Khan at least once before walking away. This desire stemmed from his admiration for SRK's work ethic and star power, seeing it as a fitting swan song.

SRK's Touch: The Catalyst for Change

Everything shifted during their first meeting for Raees. Shah Rukh, sensing Zeeshan's inner turmoil, offered words of encouragement that felt almost magical. As Zeeshan put it, "Kuch toh kiya tha uss aadmi ne, badal diya tha andar se" – translating to "That man must have done something; he changed me from within." A simple handshake from SRK dispelled the negativity, replacing it with renewed motivation. "Abhi toh bahut kaam karna hai," Zeeshan thought – "I still have so much work to do."

SRK assured him, "Work here and everything will be fine," creating an environment where Zeeshan felt valued. This interaction not only pulled him back from the brink but also transformed his outlook on acting.

Life After Raees: A Revitalized Career

Post-Raees, Zeeshan's trajectory changed dramatically. The film's success boosted his visibility, leading to diverse roles in projects like Article 15, Thugs of Hindostan, and the web series Scoop. Working with SRK taught him resilience and the importance of perseverance, helping him break free from typecasting. Today, Zeeshan continues to thrive, often reflecting on how one collaboration saved his professional life.

In an industry full of uncertainties, stories like this remind us of the power of empathy and inspiration. Shah Rukh Khan, often called the King of Bollywood, proved once again why he's not just a star but a beacon for many aspiring talents.

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