The claim on how many people know Shah Rukh Khan (SRK) varies widely and is often exaggerated. According to multiple sources including a TIME article and media reports, estimates have suggested that around 3.2 billion people know SRK globally, which would be roughly 40% of the world's population. However, this figure is often debated and viewed as an exaggeration or a PR claim without solid survey backing. SRK is enormously popular in India, among the Indian diaspora, and in some regions like the Middle East, South Asia, and parts of Russia. Yet, his recognition is not as universal globally compared to Hollywood stars like Tom Cruise. The general consensus is that while he is one of the most popular actors in the world and possibly has a fanbase in the billions if counting general recognition, the figures like 3.6 billion fans are not realistic as actual fans but rather people who have heard of or recognize his name to some extent. In summary, about 3 to 3.2 billion people around the world may be aware of SRK as a cultural icon, mostly in South Asia and areas with Indian communities, but this does not equate to everyone being a fan or simultaneously knowing his work in depth.