In the world of cinema, the magic often lies in the details, and Shah Rukh Khan’s ‘Jawan’ is no exception. This film, known for its captivating storyline and memorable performances, holds a treasure of hidden references that elevate the movie-watching experience to another level. As we delve into ‘Jawan,’ we unveil 12 references that might have escaped your notice but add an extra layer of depth and significance to this cinematic gem. Join us on this journey of discovery as we unravel the intricacies that make ‘Jawan’ an even more special and enriching experience for all cinephiles and fans of Shah Rukh Khan.
1. Bhopal Gas Tragedy Reference
“Jawan” touches upon the Bhopal gas tragedy, a devastating industrial disaster that claimed thousands of lives. In the film, SRK and his team wage a battle against anti-environment industrialists, working to shut down factories responsible for environmental harm.
2. Swades – Kaveri Amma Reference:
In a subtle reference to Ashutosh Gowariker’s “Swades,” Shah Rukh Khan’s character in “Jawan” is raised by a mother figure named Kaveri Amma, played by Ridhi Dogra. This heartwarming reference pays homage to Kaveri Amma’s character from the 2004 film Swades. In Swades, the character is portrayed by Kishori Ballal.
Loved the Kaveri Amma reference in Jawan #JawanReview pic.twitter.com/VDAmbfCW6D
— Syed Irfan Ahmad (@Iam_SyedIrfan) September 7, 2023
3. 2017 Gorakhpur Hospital Deaths Reference
“Jawan” cleverly references the tragic events at Gorakhpur hospital in 2017, where over 60 children lost their lives due to a shortage of oxygen caused by government negligence. Sanya Malhotra’s character, Dr. Eeram, reflects the struggles faced by Dr. Kafeel Khan, who tried to save the children by buying oxygen with his own money, only to face legal battles and accusations of dereliction of duty and engaging in private practice by the government. The legal battle drained him financially until he was freed of charges in 2019. Sanya Malhotra’s character, Dr. Eeram, falsely implicated by the authorities in an attempt to conceal a similar failure, draws parallels to the ordeal of Dr. Kafeel Khan.
Dr. Kafeel Khan thanking Shah Rukh Khan & #Jawan team for such a brave attempt.. He may get justice in upcoming days.. pic.twitter.com/g4Q6OrpDod
— ℣αɱριя౯ (@SRKsCombatant) September 9, 2023
4. The Lion King Reference
The film playfully includes a reference to “The Lion King,” with one of Shah Rukh Khan’s partners affectionately calling him Mufasa and referring to his son as Simba. This is particularly intriguing as Shah Rukh Khan lent his voice to Mufasa in the Hindi version of Disney’s “The Lion King,” while his son, Aryan Khan, voiced Simba.
5. The Farmers’ Suicide Reference
The movie addresses the grave issue of farmers’ suicides that is often ignored. SRK’s character emerges as a messiah who takes money from the affluent and redistributes it among struggling farmers, highlighting the ongoing challenges farmers face to repay the loan.
6. Sameer Wankhede reference
The film’s punchy dialogue, “Bete ko haath lagane se pehle baap se baat kar” (Talk to the father before touching the son), seems to reference Sameer Wankhede. SRK even repeated this dialogue during a celebration in Dubai, possibly alluding to the Aryan Khan-NCB case.
7. Dil Toh Pagal Hai reference
Shah Rukh Khan pays homage to his iconic dialogue from “Dil Toh Pagal Hai” by playfully recreating it in “Jawan,” introducing himself as “Rathore… Vikram Rathore… Naam toh suna hoga?”
8. The Billionaires Who Looted Country reference
Vijay Sethupathi’s character in the movie draws striking similarities to real-life shrewd businessmen like Subrata Roy, Nirav Modi, Vijay Mallya, and Ramalinga Raju. They secretly ally with the government, capitalizing on their favors while taxpayers bear the burden.
9. The Aparichit reference
SRK’s masked appearance in “Jawan” draws parallels to Vikram’s character in “Anniyan,” also known as “Aparichit,” adding an intriguing twist to the storyline
10. Nationalism Reference
Despite being the world’s fourth-largest arms manufacturer, Kali, portrayed by Sethupathy, supplied the army with faulty weapons that resulted in the tragic loss of numerous soldiers’ lives. Accused of acting against the nation’s interests, Kali manipulates the situation by shifting the blame onto Vikram, branding him as anti-national instead.
11. Sholay reference
The distinctive belt worn by Shah Rukh Khan in “Jawan” bears a striking resemblance to the one famously donned by Gabbar in the classic Bollywood film “Sholay.”
12. Arvind Kejriwal reference
Shah Rukh Khan’s impassioned monologue urging responsible voting in the film has drawn parallels to Arvind Kejriwal’s similar appeal, becoming a talking point among politicians.
Arvind Kejriwal have answers for all questions of Jawan👏👏#KejriwalKiGuarantee pic.twitter.com/wSpnefxsW1
— 2000 Watt (@shailesh_watt) September 7, 2023
How many references were you able to spot on your own in Jawan? Let us know in the comments section below.
