Shah Rukh Khan slams growing intolerance in India but won't return awards

New Delhi: The superstar of Bollywood - Shah Rukh Khan - who turned 50 on Monday, answered a number of questions during a Twitter town hall organised by India Today, recently.

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Shah Rukh candidly spoke about a number of issues including the growing level of intolerance and secularism, a DNA report suggests.

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Talking about the ongoing protests (returning of awards) by writers and filmmakers, SRK, reportedly said, ”I have not been in a situation like that. But I respect the people. If they think this gesture is going to turn things around, it is very brave, very honest. As far as I am concerned, I have not participated in something as meaningful as they have.”

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"Intolerance religiously…not being secular in this country is the worst crime you can do as a patriot,” the Bollywood superstar added.

However SRK refused to return his honours. According to a report in IANS he stated, ''The country is becoming increasingly intolerant. Respect those who returned government awards, but (I) won't return mine.''

Shah Rukh was honoured with Padma Shri in 2005.

Shah Rukh is currently gearing up for 'Dilwale' which is slated to release on December 18 this year.