Lalit Modi talks about Shah Rukh Khan's pivotal role in the IPL's journey, says, SRK was the number one pillar for the IPL

During a discussion with Lalit Modi on his podcast, Raj Shamani asked him about the fusion of cricket and Bollywood that turned the IPL into an entertainment phenomenon.

Entrepreneur and podcast host Raj Shamani recently had a conversation with IPL architect Lalit Modi on his popular show Figuring Out and discussed never-before-heard stories about the league's creation. Modi delves into the crucial influence of Bollywood and reveals how Shah Rukh Khan became a central figure in the league's success.

During a discussion with Lalit Modi on his podcast, Raj Shamani asked him about the fusion of cricket and Bollywood that turned the IPL into an entertainment phenomenon. Modi remarked, “Bollywood and cricket sell in this country,” emphasizing their synergy in creating a winning formula. When asked about Shah Rukh Khan's pivotal role in the league's journey, Modi shared a blend of nostalgic moments and strategic insights. He highlighted how Shah Rukh’s involvement brought unmatched star power and universal appeal, playing a key role in elevating the IPL to its iconic stature.

“I have always been a part of the glamor,” Lalit Modi opened up by recounting the tale of Shah Rukh Khan’s involvement in the IPL. “Shahrukh Khan went to school with me; we are school friends. When I approached him for cricket, I didn’t know much about it myself, but I told him, ‘I just want you to be a part of it.’ He was the number one pillar for the IPL.”

Elaborating further on Shahrukh Khan’s influence, Lalit Modi said, “Shahrukh Khan bid for a team, even though he didn’t know anything about cricket. His first choice was Mumbai, but Mukesh Ambani took that. Kolkata was his eventual pick. But Shahrukh’s real contribution was in making cricket entertaining. He brought women and children into the stadiums, which was critical for IPL’s success. That’s why we had music, cheerleaders, and a festival-like atmosphere—he turned it into an event for everyone.”

Lalit Modi attributed the trend of celebrity involvement in the IPL to Shah Rukh Khan, explaining that in the league's inaugural year, they had to persuade or pay celebrities to attend. However, by the second year, stars like Deepika Padukone and Akshay Kumar voluntarily joined in, inspired by Shah Rukh's participation. Modi emphasized that Shah Rukh's presence transformed the IPL from a cricket tournament into a cultural phenomenon.