Salman Khan‘s latest film, Sikandar, directed by AR Murugadoss, hit the big screens just ahead of Eid, marking his return to the festival with a film release after two years. Although trade analysts projected a robust opening with collections between ₹40-50 crore, Sikandar has struggled with negative social media reviews. Critics and fans alike have taken issue with what they perceive as Salman’s “low effort” performance, with a particular clip circulating online suggesting his dialogue was dubbed by another actor. This has raised concerns about his interest in current film projects.
The video, however, has been removed from social media due to copyright issues. Despite this, the debate surrounding Salman’s enthusiasm for his craft continues to fuel discussions among fans and critics. The film’s producers are also facing backlash for alleged corporate bookings meant to inflate box office numbers, adding another layer of controversy. A viral video of a fan distributing ₹1.7 lakh worth of free tickets only intensifies these claims, suggesting box office performance might rely on such measures given the lukewarm reception from audiences.
Historically, Salman Khan’s films have transformed Eid into a major cinematic event, his releases anticipated by countless fans. Yet, the mixed reactions to Sikandar echo the reception of his previous Eid offering, Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan, which did not meet expectations in 2023. Salman aims to overturn this pattern and reestablish his dominance with Sikandar, despite its current hurdles.
As reviews continue to shape public perception, the film’s future success remains uncertain. While some may argue that Salman’s popularity could drive attendance, the ongoing discourse about the actor’s commitment and the film’s execution deeply influences its potential. Salman’s career trajectory and future offerings will undoubtedly be impacted by how Sikandar performs at the box office, leaving both fans and industry analysts eager to see what unfolds next.
