The founder of the Indian Premier League, Lalit Modi, recently went back to the league’s early days and discussed how Bollywood Star Shah Rukh Khan, the co-owner of Kolkata Knight Riders, contributed to the tournament’s increased popularity. In an interview, Lalit Modi disclosed that KKR wasn’t his choice pick for an IPL franchise and instead he wanted to buy Mumbai Indians. Shahrukh Khan and his close friend and actor Juhi Chawla reportedly paid INR 570 crore to acquire KKR prior to the start of the Indian Premier League in 2008.
“Bollywood and cricket sell in this country. I have always been a part of the glamor. Shah Rukh Khan went 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. Shah Rukh Khan bid for a team, even though he didn’t know anything about cricket,” said Lalit Modi.
Lalit Modi also revealed that Shah Rukh Khan truly intended to buy Mumbai Indians, but with Mukesh Ambani handling the honors, King Khan chose KKR. The franchise became one of the most successful IPL teams over time. The franchise is a three-time IPL champion.
“His first choice was Mumbai, but Mukesh Ambani took that. Kolkata was his eventual pick. But Shah Rukh’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.” said Lalit Modi.