How ‘Godfather’ Shah Rukh Khan Inspired Atlee To Acquire Bengaluru Jawans In World Pickleball League

The Bengaluru Jawans are participating in the league’s inaugural season, which began on January 24.

Celebrated director Atlee and his wife Priya have ventured into sports by purchasing the Bengaluru team in the World Pickleball League (WPBL). Their club, the Bengaluru Jawans, is participating in the league’s inaugural season, which began on January 24. In a recent media interaction during the league, Atlee shared what inspired him to step into the world of sports, and it has a connection to none other than Shah Rukh Khan.

At the league, Atlee and his wife Priya noted that they had full faith in their team, and even though they are not much aware of the sport, they keep cheering them. Speaking about why they decided to own a team, Atlee stated, “My biggest inspiration is Shah Rukh Sir who has KKR in the IPL. So I have been with him. He’s always there, he’s always my Godfather in the cinema. So whatever he has done, whatever he has taught me, I am just doing it, that’s it!”

Atlee worked with Shah Rukh Khan in Jawan which released in 2023. Backed by Red Chillies Entertainment, the film also featured Nayanthara, Sunil Grover, Sanya Malhotra, Priyamani, Ridhi Dogra and Eijaz Khan in significant roles. Deepika Padukone and Sanjay Dutt were seen in special appearances. Jawan presents the gripping story of a prison warden who works with inmates to expose corruption and injustice through daring actions. In the film, Shah Rukh Khan portrayed two roles: Captain Vikram Rathore, an ex-commando, and Azad, the jailer of a women’s prison and Vikram’s son.

The film gained significant recognition from both fans and critics for its fascinating plot and outstanding performances. Following its huge success in India, Jawan made its premiere in Japan on November 29, receiving amazing reviews from Japanese viewers. Shah Rukh Khan has recently expressed that he was happy that the film was doing well overseas, He wrote, “I’ve been reading about the love coming in from Japan for #Jawan… Thank you all, and I hope you enjoy the film in your wonderful country. We made it from India for the world. I’m delighted it’s being enjoyed all over. My love and thanks to everyone who has viewed it in Japan.”

Moreover, Atlee recently produced Baby John starring Varun Dhawan recently. The film also featured Keerthy Suresh, Wamiqa Gabbi, Jackie Shroff and Rajpal Yadav. Baby John had hit theaters on December 25, 2024.