What is Shah Rukh Khan’s secret to his IPL team KKR’s success? Karan Johar breaks it down

Shah Rukh Khan’s Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) isn’t just an IPL team; it’s a masterclass in passion, strategy, and relentless engagement. In an interview with Sarthak Ahuja, filmmaker Karan Johar dissected why KKR has grown into one of the most profitable and high-profile ventures in SRK’s career. Unlike celebrity endorsements that rely solely on star power, KKR’s success stems from Shah Rukh Khan’s obsessive involvement, hands-on strategising, and genuine dedication, turning a sports team into a powerhouse brand that connects deeply with fans and the market alike.

Karan Johar explained that the partnership between SRK and KKR was groundbreaking because it combined fame with active, sustained effort. SRK doesn’t merely lend his name or presence to the team; he immerses himself in every aspect of its operations.



His approach is personal and meticulous, investing hours into strategy, engagement, and overall management. Johar emphasised that this level of commitment is rare—when a person passionately dedicates time, energy, and expertise to a venture, even the possibility of failure doesn’t deter them. That devotion translates into tangible success, making KKR one of the most profitable and respected businesses in SRK’s portfolio.

Johar also highlighted the broader lesson behind KKR’s rise. True success doesn’t come from celebrity or superficial branding alone; it comes from genuine passion, relentless effort, and authenticity. When a brand or project is handled with care, dedication, and wholehearted involvement, consumers and fans immediately recognise it. SRK’s hands-on approach with KKR demonstrates that engagement, obsession, and sincere passion create ventures that are not only financially successful but also culturally resonant, setting a standard for celebrity-led businesses across industries.

About KKR

In 2008, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made their debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL), which had been launched a year earlier by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) based on the Twenty20 format. The team representing Kolkata was acquired at an auction in Mumbai by Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan’s company Red Chillies Entertainment, along with actress Juhi Chawla and her husband Jay Mehta, for $75.09 million, roughly Rs 2.98 billion at the time.

Legendary cricketer Sourav Ganguly, a former captain of the Indian national team, was named the team’s Icon player. As of 2022, Forbes valued KKR at $1.1 billion, making it the third most valuable IPL franchise behind the Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings.