Bollywood sensation Salman Khan, renowned for his charisma and filmic success, finds his ancestral roots woven into the historical fabric of Mandleshwar, Madhya Pradesh. This small town, about 50 kilometers from Khargone, holds a special place in his lineage, housing a 200-year-old Resident Kothi from the era of British rule. This building served as the residence and workplace of Salman Khan’s grandfather, Rashid Khan, who held the distinguished title of Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police in Holkar State, an important position during the British Raj.
While Salman Khan’s immense popularity spans across India, lesser-known is his grandfather’s significant role in enforcing the law during tumultuous times. Rashid Khan, remembered as a prominent police officer, became a notable figure in the Holkar State, with his service etched into the annals of history. His career here began as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) before rising to the position of DIG from 1942 to 1948, residing in the Mandleshwar bungalow where his office was also located.
The story of DIG Rashid Khan is closely intertwined with pivotal events such as the Quit India Movement of 1942. Amidst this upheaval, 68 prisoners sought permission to celebrate Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday, a request denied by the Holkar administration. Their protests escalated, leading to an attempted prison break—a moment in which Rashid Khan intervened, maintaining law and order with unwavering resolve.
Salman Khan’s father, Salim Khan, often reminisces about his youthful days spent in Holkar State under his father’s watchful eye. The family visits to Mandleshwar were frequent, with Salim and his siblings exploring the scenic Narmada River through secret paths connected to the Kothi. These experiences have inadvertently contributed to the family’s deep-seated connection with this important historical chapter.
Mandleshwar continued to be adorned with the authority of a DIG until 1956, when the post was abolished. Veterans like constable Babu Chacha, who served alongside DIG Rashid Khan, recount the visits of the distinguished officer’s family as vivid memories etched in time. Salim Khan’s fond recollection of playing in the river with his siblings and their family’s legacy of public service reflect a heritage that is remarkably illustrious and profound.
The story of Salman Khan’s lineage extends further back to his great-grandfather, Anwar Khan, an Alakozai Pashtun from Afghanistan. Migrating to India in the mid-1800s, he joined the cavalry of the British Indian Army, setting a foundation of societal contribution. This legacy of duty and service, across generations, is mirrored in Salman Khan’s own achievements in the entertainment industry, sustaining the family’s tradition of impactful presence.
As the eagerly anticipated release of “Sikandar” for Eid 2025 approaches, these stories of historical significance imbue Salman Khan’s present endeavors with a rich, textured past. They remind us of the enduring legacy of prominent figures like DIG Rashid Khan, whose efforts resonate through time, leaving an indelible mark not just on the pages of history, but on the hearts of those familiar with his tale.
