Salman Khan, the Bollywood superstar known for his diverse filmography, recently shared his perspective on why he doesn’t feel the need to play a traditional superhero in films. Ahead of the March 30 release of his latest film, Sikandar, Khan delved into genres he has yet to explore, such as biopics and superhero movies. However, he emphasized that the nature of Indian cinema renders caped heroes unnecessary, reflecting on his prolific career spanning nearly 40 years and over 110 films.
Discussing Indian cinema’s unique approach, Salman Khan remarked in an interview with India Today, “The kind of films and roles that we do, we don’t really have to wear a cape to be superheroes. All our Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Punjabi, Bengali films – every film industry, the hero is a superhero without wearing a cape. Every protector is a superhero.” He noted that despite lacking traditional superpowers or costumes, Indian protagonists inherently embody the qualities of superheroes.
Alongside this discourse, Khan addressed rumors surrounding his on-set habits, countering claims about his supposed lack of professionalism. “There are stories that I come late to the set and that I am not serious about my work, etc. I have 100+ films, more than anybody else, apart from some senior actors. It is not possible to do this kind of work if you are coming late and leaving early,” he clarified. Khan explained his routine, which starts around noon after completing various personal and professional commitments.
He shared, “Someone may start at 6 in the morning, I start by 12 noon. I’ve got a lot of other work to attend to prior to that – like signing important documents, attending phone calls, working out, etc., and then, when you come to the set, you relax, have a coffee and understand the scene. After that, I don’t even go back to the vanity van. Wherever they put the tent for the video village, I am there.” This statement highlights his dedication and emphasizes that efficiency is not always tied to traditional schedules.
The impact of Khan’s remarks underscores an ongoing conversation about the evolving nature of heroism in Indian cinema. His views suggest a shift in narrative focus, valuing authenticity and cultural relevance over Western superhero tropes. As Salman Khan continues to inspire audiences with roles that defy conventional boundaries, it’s anticipated that his influence will further shape the future of cinema, potentially redefining heroism for emerging generations.
