More than two decades after Mohabbatein became a Bollywood classic, the story behind Shah Rukh Khan’s memorable hairstyle in the film has resurfaced.
In the 2000 romantic drama, Shah Rukh played music teacher Raj Aryan Malhotra. His character became instantly recognizable for several signature details—from his glasses and violin-playing style to his outfits, expressions and, most notably, the strands of hair falling across his forehead.
Celebrity hairstylist Dilshad Pastakia recently opened up about how that look came together, revealing that Shah Rukh’s wife, Gauri Khan, played an important role in introducing the actor to him.
Pastakia recalled that Shah Rukh was preparing to work on Mohabbatein while filming Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani. Gauri, who had already been visiting his salon for some time, eventually told him that she would bring Shah Rukh in.
By then, Shah Rukh was already one of Bollywood’s biggest stars. However, according to Pastakia, the actor was somewhat apprehensive about getting his hair cut or making major changes to his appearance because of some earlier experiences.
Pastakia said the actor’s nervousness made him nervous as well. He eventually studied Shah Rukh’s facial structure and hair texture before deciding what kind of style would suit the character.
At that point, Gauri stepped in with reassurance. She encouraged the hairstylist to trust his judgment and create whatever look he felt was appropriate.
After the styling was completed, Gauri reportedly praised the result. Pastakia has described that moment as an important milestone in his career, saying it was the first time he truly felt he had demonstrated his abilities at that level.
The importance of the hairstyle was not limited to appearance. Celebrity hairstylist Ayush Manocha has explained that even subtle changes in an actor’s hair can significantly influence how a character is perceived.
Changing the hair parting, adjusting its volume or allowing strands to fall across the forehead can alter the entire personality of a character. Manocha noted that the hairstyle of a corporate executive, for example, would naturally differ from that of an ordinary musician.
That principle was particularly evident in Mohabbatein. Shah Rukh’s hairstyle helped give Raj Aryan a softer and more romantic personality, complementing the character’s wardrobe, makeup and overall styling.
When all those elements come together, a character can develop a distinct visual identity that audiences remember long after the film has ended.
And in Shah Rukh Khan’s case, the hairstyle from Mohabbatein became more than just a fashion choice—it became one of the defining visual signatures of his character and an enduring part of Bollywood pop culture.
