Vivek Oberoi Says Even Shah Rukh Khan May Be Forgotten by 2050 Cites Raj Kapoor Example

Actor Vivek Oberoi has stirred debate with his recent remarks on the fleeting nature of fame, suggesting that even global superstar Shah Rukh Khan may not be remembered by the year 2050. Speaking during an interview on the evolution of stardom in India, Oberoi argued that public memory is short-lived, especially in an age dominated by rapid digital consumption and constantly shifting pop culture trends.

Referring to legendary filmmaker and actor Raj Kapoor, Oberoi said that while Kapoor is celebrated as an icon in Indian cinema, many young people today know little about his body of work. “Ask some youngsters today, ‘Who is Raj Kapoor?’ and many won’t know,” Oberoi observed. He believes the same phenomenon could apply to modern-day superstars, including Shah Rukh Khan, despite their immense popularity and global fan following.

Oberoi clarified that his comments were not meant as disrespect toward any actor but as a commentary on how fame evolves. In his view, even the biggest public figures eventually become part of history, and only a small portion of their legacy survives with future generations. “It’s not about Shah Rukh Khan specifically,” he said. “It’s about how the world changes. What is considered legendary today may fade with time.”

He further argued that entertainment consumption has undergone dramatic transformation. With social media, streaming platforms, and a constant flood of new content, audiences especially younger ones are exposed to a far wider mix of creators and influencers than previous generations were. This, Oberoi said, creates a fragmented landscape where the idea of a unifying ‘superstar’ becomes harder to sustain.

Industry observers note that while celebrities from earlier decades remain revered, their cultural visibility has indeed decreased among the youth. Many analysts interpreted Oberoi’s comments as highlighting this trend rather than questioning the achievements of any specific star. Shah Rukh Khan, in particular, has maintained a strong global presence for over three decades, with blockbuster films, global awards, and a massive international fan base. Nonetheless, Oberoi’s point suggests that fame, no matter how vast, is always vulnerable to the passage of time.

Oberoi also spoke about the importance of focusing on meaningful work rather than pursuing fleeting stardom. He said that artists should strive to create art with lasting value, acknowledging that even then, public memory may eventually fade.

His comments sparked widespread reactions online, with many debating whether cultural memory truly fades as quickly as he claims. The discussion continues as fans and commentators weigh in on the longevity of cinematic legacy in a rapidly changing world.