MUMBAI: On his fiftieth birthday, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan voiced his opinion on what is widely being seen as ‘growing intolerance’ in the country, accepting that there was widespread intolerance in the Indian society now.

Responding to a question during a Twitter townhall with India Today‘s Rajdeep Sardesai, Shah Rukh Khan said the biggest mistake a patriot can make was to go against secularism in India.

When asked if he was ready to give up his awards much like those over the past month, Shah Rukh Khan said he would, in a symbolic gesture if asked to.

“Yes, as a symbolic gesture I would give it up… I do think there is intolerance. There is extreme intolerance,” Shah Rukh Khan said.

The Bollywood star also spoke of his life as a Muslim in India, referring to past instances where he had to explain himself after his remarks sparked controversy. “No one can question my patriotism. How dare anyone?” Khan said.

INP