Eid is synonymous with a Salman Khan release in cinemas. Fondly known as ‘Bhai’, Salman returns after a year and a half with ‘Sikandar’, hitting theaters on March 30. At 59, Salman Khan continues to rely on the charisma and machismo that has secured him a loyal fan base, ready to fill cinemas. With confidence, he asserts, “Festive, non-festive… it’s the love of the people. Picture achhi ho buri ho, 100 toh paar karva hi denge.” His statement highlights his enduring appeal, placing the love of his audience above the film’s critical reception.
Despite his consistent openings, recent releases have struggled to maintain momentum beyond initial success. ‘Tiger 3’, released in 2023, did not meet the high expectations associated with a Salman Khan film. Even ‘Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan’, another 2023 film, fared poorly. However, suggesting a decline in Salman Khan’s box-office power may be premature. A post-Covid shift has impacted the superstar’s success trajectory, as ‘Radhe’ (2021) failed to ignite the box office. Yet, Salman’s cameo in ‘Pathaan’ offered a memorable moment, indicating his lasting presence.
Meanwhile, actors like Ranbir Kapoor with ‘Animal’, Vicky Kaushal with ‘Chhaava’, Allu Arjun with the ‘Pushpa’ franchise, and Yash with ‘KGF: Chapter 2’ have captured box-office attention. Shah Rukh Khan‘s resurgence as an action hero in ‘Pathaan’ and ‘Jawan’ also adds to the dynamic arena of Hindi cinema.
Salman’s recent experiences include facing threats from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, leading to increased security measures and restricting his mobility. He mentioned, “Now, it’s all about Galaxy (home in Bandra) to shoot and from shoot to Galaxy; nothing else.” This situation has affected his work schedule, with ‘Sikandar’ director A.R. Murugadoss noting the challenges due to necessary security. “Our schedule was demanding, and it became more hectic with the threat,” Murugadoss shared with a leading national daily. “Post that, security was tightened, and the frisking of all extra artistes on the sets would take 2-3 hours daily. We often started the shoot late and ended late by the wee hours of the morning.”
The trailer, released shortly before the film’s debut, suggests Salman Khan returns to familiar territory with action-packed sequences and compelling dialogues. The film features Rashmika Mandanna, Sathyaraj (known for his role as Katappa in ‘Bahubali’), Sharman Joshi, and Prateik Babbar.
Both Salman Khan and cinema owners hope ‘Sikandar’ recaptures his previous glory while battling the dual challenge of high IPL season and a scarcity of major releases in April. With multiplexes screening IPL matches, the future of Hindi cinema, in the immediate term, rests heavily on Salman’s shoulders.
