The King of Bollywood himself Shahrukh Khan received a royal welcome to Manchester last night. Arif Asif and Neetal Parekh report.

The city left an impression on the superstar who said he was overwhelmed by the response.

The event was featured live via our Twitter Feed and here on the Asian Image website with exclusive updates.

Amidst what were at times chaotic scenes a host of celebrities attended the event held at the Davenport Green Hall which is based on the outskirts of the city.  And whilst fans had to wait untill after 10pm for him to make an appearance, he certainly didn’t disappoint when he took to the stage.

People were standing on chairs, with others on their friend's shoulders just to get a glimpse of the star.

It simply was too much to handle for some fans who found being in the presence of a Bollywood superstar overwhelming. Several fans could not hold back their tears and simply broke down at the sight of him!

The evening organised by Lockdown Promotions was opened by the talented and exhilarating Sonash sisters who were followed by Imran Khan, H-Dhami, Kiran Dhanoa, and Abbas Hassan. It finished off with a colourful yet elegant fashion show.

DJ Fritz and his supreme dream team provided the perfect blend of music as guests arrived in what was a stunning venue.

Famous faces attending on the night included, England Cricketer Sajid Mahmood, ex Arsenal and Everton striker Kevin Campbell and Adam Woodyatt of Eastenders better known as Ian Beale.

As well as posing for pictures with fans, Shahrukh took part in a question and answer session with the crowd.

Some Bollywood stars we have reported on in the past have seemed a little aloof. But Shahrukh was out to make the audience feel right at home from the very start.

He seemed fairly relaxed and was keen to play along with as many of the requests coming his way. For a moment some of us forgot this was one of the most famous faces on the planet.

After talking about his love for the UK and upcoming movie projects he revealed his   fondness for Manchester United and cheekily taunted rivals City.

He went on to talk about how football should be promoted in the sub-continent and that he is thinking of performing a more comic role in the near future.

The more humorous elements of the night were provided thanks to some very enthusiastic fans who had messages recorded for their loved ones.

Shahrukh, sung ‘tujhe dekha to yeh jaana sanam’ from his hit movie Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and some lucky ladies requested him to perform and substitute their names into his film dialogues.


Yousaf Khan, 21 of Leeds said, “I can't believe ‘the king’ came to Manchester, we feel so lucky and honoured”.

Joan who had travelled all the way from Birmingham added, “Sharukh is the epitome of acting, dancing and creativity. He enriches and represents the Indian culture like no other.”

Sana Mahmood from Birmingham said, “Shahrukh made hundreds of peoples dream come true!! He interacted with all his fans and even blew me a kiss. I just love SRK."

Whilst there were moments the event was getting out of hand (much to do with over-emotional fans!) many in the crowds were simply happy to catch a glimpse of the Bhadshah of Bollywood.

More pictures to follow