Shashi Tharoor calls Shah Rukh Khan a ‘national treasure’; SRK’s cheeky reply has fans reaching for dictionaries

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan recently hit a major career milestone as he won an National Award after more than 30 years in the film industry. The accolade came for his performance in Atlee’s 2023 action hit Jawan.

The kudos didn’t stop there. Politician and wordsmith Shashi Tharoor took to social media to congratulate SRK, calling him a 'national treasure.' True to his quick wit, SRK fired back with a cheeky reply referencing Tharoor’s famously fancy vocabulary: “Thank u for the simple praise Mr Tharoor… Would not have understood something more magniloquent and sesquipedalian… ha ha.”

For those wondering, magniloquent means speaking in a grand or lofty style, while sesquipedalian is all about those long, fancy words, exactly the kind Tharoor is known for.

Following his big win, SRK shared a video message expressing his gratitude: “Namaskar and Adab. Needless to say, I'm overwhelmed with gratitude, pride and humility. To be honoured with the National Award is a moment that I will cherish for a lifetime.” He thanked the jury, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, his directors, producers, family, and fans.

Of course, he couldn’t resist his trademark charm and humor, ending with:

“This award is for you, as each award is. And yeah, I would love to spread my arms for you and share my love, but I'm a bit indisposed. But don't worry, just keep the popcorn ready. I'll be back in theaters and soon on the screen. So till then, just with one hand. Ready!”

In his social media caption, he added:

“Thank you for honouring me with the National Award. Thanks to the jury, the I&B ministry… Iss samman ke liye Bharat Sarkar ka dhanyawaad. Overwhelmed with the love showered upon me. Half a hug to everyone today.”