The Bollywood phenomenal superstar, who has 15.7 million followers on Twitter, Shah Rukh Khan (49), was bestowed with his second honorary doctorate, from the University of Edinburgh, on Thursday 15th October 2015. He received the award from the University Chancellor HRH The Princess Royal in Edinburgh.
Shah Rukh Khan was presented the degree of Doctor Honoris Causa, in recognition of his outstanding record of philanthropy, altruism and humanitarianism, as well as for his global reach as an actor.
Khan's charitable work includes creating a children's ward at a hospital in Mumbai, India; supporting relief funds to assist areas devastated by tsunamis; and bringing solar power to rural villages in India.
While receiving the degree, Khan said, “It is a pleasure to be honoured by the University of Edinburgh and tread in the footsteps of so many of the world's illustrious thinkers, leaders and personalities. To have the opportunity to address one of the most esteemed educational institutions in the world is a special moment.”
He further stated, “I look forward to the university continuing on its path as a great civic university, demonstrated by its partnership with India, addressing health, academic research excellence and social justice. I hope that many more of India and South Asia's brightest minds get a chance to learn, think and grow at Edinburgh.”
It is said that Edinburgh's first Indian student graduated in 1876 and it is suggested that by the 1920s, Edinburgh's Indian student population was far greater than that of any other UK university.
The university's vice-principal, Professor Charlie Jeffery said, “The University of Edinburgh has very strong ties with India and I am delighted that we are able to recognise the philanthropic work and career of one of the most outstanding stars of world cinema. It is a great privilege to present Shah Rukh Khan with one of our highest honours, a doctorate of the university. As India's population and economy grow, so too does the demand for world-class education. Our aim at Edinburgh is to build partnerships and strengthen awareness that will reinforce our position as the partner of choice for the Indian knowledge economy.”
