Celebrity photographer Dabboo Ratnani reveals that nearly 90 percent of his photoshoots with Shah Rukh Khan were conducted at Mannat. Sharing rare behind-the-scenes stories, Ratnani discussed capturing SRK’s natural moments, creative concepts, and memorable experiences during their long-standing professional association in the entertainment industry.
Renowned celebrity photographer Dabboo Ratnani has offered a fascinating glimpse into his long-standing professional relationship with Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, revealing that nearly 90 percent of their photoshoots were conducted at the actor’s iconic residence, Mannat.
The celebrated photographer made the revelation during a conversation on filmmaker and actress Pooja Bhatt’s podcast, where he shared several behind-the-scenes stories from his years of working with the Bollywood icon. Ratnani’s insights highlighted not only Shah Rukh Khan’s comfort in front of the camera but also the natural charm that has contributed to some of the actor’s most memorable photographs.
During the discussion, Pooja Bhatt remarked that Ratnani had a unique ability to bring out a different side of Shah Rukh Khan in his photographs, making the superstar appear exceptionally charismatic and attractive. Responding to the observation, Ratnani revealed that most of their collaborations took place within the familiar surroundings of Mannat, where the actor felt relaxed and comfortable.
“With Shah Rukh, I’ve done 90 percent of my shoots in his house,” Ratnani shared, emphasizing the strong creative understanding that developed between the two over the years.
The photographer also recalled a memorable occasion when Shah Rukh Khan visited his studio in Oshiwara. Instead of asking the actor to strike formal poses, Ratnani captured candid moments while Shah Rukh was playing with his pet dog, Flash. According to the photographer, these spontaneous interactions often resulted in more authentic and engaging images than traditional posed photographs.
Ratnani explained that he preferred allowing Shah Rukh to immerse himself in the moment rather than focusing on the camera. This approach enabled him to capture genuine expressions and emotions, which became a hallmark of many of their successful shoots.
Sharing another interesting anecdote, Ratnani revealed how inspiration for one of Shah Rukh Khan’s photoshoots came unexpectedly while he was visiting a tyre shop. He noticed a worker loading used tyres into a vehicle and immediately envisioned a unique backdrop for a creative shoot.
Inspired by the scene, Ratnani contacted the tyre shop and arranged for approximately 200 used tyres to be transported to Mehboob Studio. The tyres were then transformed into an elaborate set, creating a striking visual concept that eventually became one of the actor’s memorable photographs.
Over the years, Dabboo Ratnani has become one of India’s most respected celebrity photographers, known for his highly anticipated annual calendar featuring some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. Each edition showcases 24 celebrities through distinctive and innovative photo concepts.
Apart from Shah Rukh Khan, Ratnani has worked extensively with leading Bollywood personalities including Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Bipasha Basu, and Arjun Rampal. His creative vision and ability to capture celebrities in unique settings have made his work a significant part of India’s entertainment and fashion photography landscape.
| Also Read: Young flautist from Tripura achieves milestone at ITC SRA |
The latest revelations further highlight the close professional bond between Ratnani and Shah Rukh Khan, offering fans a rare look into the stories behind some of the superstar’s most iconic photographs.
