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Saif Ali Khan’s eclectic reading taste includes Ayn Rand’s “The Fountainhead” for its focus on individualism.
Saif Ali Khan is a global-minded actor with royal ancestry whose passions go far beyond sets and scripts. (File Image)
Saif Ali Khan is a notable personality in the Bollywood industry, not only for his acting but also for his varied tastes and intellectual curiosity. Saif is a global-minded actor with royal ancestry whose passions go far beyond sets and scripts. He is also an avid reader and his taste in literature reflects his artistic endeavours. He still finds time to read a great book amid his busy schedule. Any bookworm would be jealous of his magnificent collection, stocked with first editions and signed copies. Saif has given us a look into his personality by sharing some of his favourite novels in his interviews. The books that influenced the actor’s thought process offer an intriguing look into his mind. He suggests these three works since they each have a distinct storytelling and thought-provoking style. Let’s have a look:
The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand
The Fountainhead (1943) by Ayn Rand is a philosophical book that uses the tale of Howard Roark, a young, unyielding architect, to examine independence, creativity and integrity. Roark encounters obstacles and rejection as a result of his creative designs that defy social norms. Roark’s independence is contrasted throughout the book with the moral compromising and conforming behaviour of characters such as Peter Keating and Ellsworth Toohey. Rand uses the story to support her objectivism, emphasising the pursuit of personal values and rational self-interest. The book is a thought-provoking examination of ambition, artistic independence and the conflict between personal vision and social expectations.
Saif Ali Khan suggests this book because it emphasises the value of self-reliance and sticking to one’s convictions, which he can connect to in his own life and work. In addition to telling a gripping tale, the book challenges readers to consider their morals and the cost of being authentic.
The Code of the Woosters by P.G. Wodehouse
The Code of the Woosters by P.G. Wodehouse, published in 1938, is a hilarious comedy romp that stars the endearingly incompetent Bertie Wooster and his unflappable butler, Jeeves. Bertie is drawn into a string of mishaps including a friend’s romantic problems, an outrageous cow-creamer and an overbearing aunt. Wodehouse’s trademark wit, complex plot turns and endearing characters such as the cunning Sir Roderick Spode and the unfortunate Gussie Fink-Nottle abound in this tale. One of Wodehouse’s best-known works, the novel is a masterwork of absurd humour that captures the whimsical mayhem of upper-class British society.
Saif has a strong taste for British wit and Wodehouse’s light-hearted narrative is expertly displayed in this novel. He adores how it provides a lovely diversion from daily life, full of witty banter and humorous scenarios.
Collected Ghost Stories by M.R. James
Some of the best ghostly stories ever written are collected in M.R. James’s Collected Ghost Stories, demonstrating his command of atmosphere, tension and fear. These tales, which were written between 1895 and 1936, frequently centre on scholars or antiquarians who unintentionally awaken evil spirits. James creates a spooky realism with his use of rich historical information and subtle danger. These classic stories continue to enthral readers with their subdued, eerie intensity and have influenced countless horror authors.
Saif Ali Khan is enthralled by James’ use of suspense and tension, choosing psychological terror over the gory violence frequently found in contemporary films. This suggestion demonstrates Saif’s wide range of literary preferences by fusing his passion for books with an interest in the enigmatic. Collected Ghost Stories is a great option if you’re searching for a terrifying dive into the paranormal; it provides a spooky experience without resorting to graphic graphics.
Saif Ali Khan’s reading list portrays a man who refuses to be constrained by the glamour of his career to better comprehend the world and himself. One can’t help but wonder which book will influence his decisions or give him a fresh perspective on life as he continues to wow audiences with his amazing movies. His bookshelf serves as a map of a different vision as well as a collection of volumes for readers and fans like us.
