Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan made a powerful appearance at the Global Peace Honours 2025 ceremony in Mumbai on Saturday, November 22, delivering an emotional tribute to the security personnel and innocent civilians who lost their lives in recent terror attacks across India.
Heartfelt Tribute to Nation's Heroes
The actor began his address by paying respects to those affected by the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, the Pahalgam terrorist incident, and the recent Delhi explosions. In a moving speech that resonated throughout the venue, Khan expressed his deep admiration for the country's armed forces and their families.
"My humble tribute to the innocent people who lost their lives in the 26/11 terrorist attack, the Pahalgam terrorist attack, and the recent Delhi blasts. And my respectful salute to our brave security personnel who were martyred in these attacks," the superstar stated with visible emotion.
Powerful Poetry for Soldiers
Shah Rukh Khan then recited four poignant lines in Hindi, dedicating them to India's military personnel. The verses conveyed a message of pride, sacrifice, and unwavering courage that left the audience deeply moved.
"When someone asks you what you do, say with pride that I protect the country. If someone asks you how much you earn, smile slightly and say, I earn the blessings of 1.4 billion people. And if they turn around and ask you again, Aren't you ever afraid? Look them in the eye and say, those who attack us feel it," he declared with conviction.
Saluting the Support System
The actor extended his gratitude beyond the soldiers themselves, acknowledging the crucial role played by their families. He specifically mentioned the mothers who raised such courageous individuals, the fathers who instilled resilience, and the partners who provided emotional support during challenging times.
"It was the soldiers who were in the war, but it's all of these who fought the war as well, that too with courage and determination. I salute them from the bottom of my heart," Khan added, emphasizing the collective effort behind every soldier's bravery.
Drawing inspiration from his iconic 2006 film Don, the superstar delivered a powerful statement about India's indomitable spirit: "They always say India never bows down to anyone. It's not been stopped or defeated. Its sovereignty has never been stripped away. Because as long as this nation's superheroes — the men in uniform — are there, to take away this country's peace mushkil hi nahi namumkin hai (is not just difficult, but impossible)."
A Call for Universal Peace
Khan concluded his address by emphasizing the fundamental importance of peace, describing it as a revolutionary force that fosters better ideas and progressive thinking. He urged citizens to transcend divisions and work collectively toward a harmonious society.
"Peace is a beautiful thing. The whole world seeks it. It's peace which everyone wants. Nothing is more beautiful than peace because peace gives birth to better ideas and thinking, to new ways and ideas. In every way, shanti hi kranti hai (peace is a revolution) for a better world," he philosophized.
The actor's final words served as a rallying cry for national unity: "So, let us all take steps towards peace together. Let us forget caste, creed, and discrimination around us, and walk the path of humanity so that the martyrdom of our heroes for the peace of our country is not in vain. If we have peace among us, nothing can shake India, nothing can defeat India, and nothing can break the spirit of us Indians. Jai Hind."
The event also featured a heartwarming performance where Shah Rukh Khan joined young girls on stage for a rendition of "Ye Jo Des Hai Tera" from his acclaimed 2004 film Swades. The superstar's affectionate interaction with the children, including planting kisses on their cheeks, added a touching moment to the solemn occasion.
