Srinagar: The horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on April 22, which claimed 26 lives after victims were questioned about their religion, has left India in shock. Amid this tragedy, a resurfaced video of Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan explaining jihad’s true meaning has gone viral on social media. In the clip, Shah Rukh clarifies the often-misused term, stating, “Jihad means battling your inner evils, not killing people on the streets.” The attack, where the term ‘jihad’ was misused, has amplified the relevance of his message, sparking widespread discussion.

Footage from the Pahalgam attack revealed terrorists interrogating victims about their faith and demanding they recite the Kalima, repeatedly invoking ‘jihad.’ This incident has fueled nationwide grief and outrage. Shah Rukh’s 2019 video, from a public event, counters this distortion. “I’m Muslim, and in our faith, jihad is an internal struggle,” he said. The video has garnered immense praise online. “Shah Rukh’s words promote peace and unity,” said Farhana Khan, a Delhi-based social worker. His message is fostering dialogue on religious understanding in a polarized climate.

Shah Rukh’s statement underscores his role as more than just an actor—a voice for harmony. He is currently working on King, a film with his daughter Suhana Khan, featuring Abhishek Bachchan as the antagonist, slated for release by late 2026. As the nation grapples with the Pahalgam tragedy, Shah Rukh’s call for clarity on jihad’s true meaning resonates deeply, urging society to reject divisive misinterpretations and embrace mutual respect.