Rajeev Verma, a well-known actor from the late 80s and 90s, became endearingly associated with Salman Khan due to his portrayal of Salman’s father in various films. Despite being only a few years older than the Bollywood superstar, the emotional depth and authenticity he brought to his roles led many fans to believe he was Salman Khan’s real father. This confusion particularly stemmed from his performance as Kishen in the hit film “Maine Pyar Kiya,” where Verma’s chemistry with Salman received widespread appreciation.
In an interview, Rajeev Verma confirmed that for years he was commonly addressed as Salman Khan’s real father. Speaking to NDTV, he remarked, “Let me tell you, even today people call me Salman Khan’s father. People still remember the dialogue of the film. This film will always remain green.” His portrayal left a lasting impression, etching his character into the hearts of film enthusiasts.
Rajeev’s filmography spans several blockbuster hits, such as “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam,” “Koi Mil Gaya,” “Hum Saath Saath Hain,” “Kachche Dhaage,” “Biwi No.1,” “Laila Majnu,” “Himmatwala,” “Chalte Chalte,” and “Har Dil Jo Pyar Karega.” His on-screen persona as Salman’s father contributed significantly to audiences’ misconceptions about his real-life relationship with the actor.
Interestingly, Rajeev Verma is related to another prominent Bollywood family. He is married to Rita Verma, Jaya Bachchan’s sister, making him Amitabh Bachchan‘s brother-in-law. Rita Verma, originally Rita Bhaduri, stays out of the limelight, preferring her career in education in her hometown, Bhopal.
Before stepping into the film industry, Rajeev Verma was an architect for a government company, holding a degree from the esteemed Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology in Bhopal. He furthered his education by obtaining a master’s degree in urban design from Delhi’s School of Planning and Architecture. Although acting was not his initial career path, a few college plays paved the way for his future in Bollywood, where he became a beloved on-screen father, earning him the unexpected title of being Salman Khan’s dad.
The mix-up regarding his relationship with Salman Khan highlights the powerful influence of cinema and how it blurs the lines between on-screen fiction and reality. Rajeev Verma’s roles continue to resonate, leaving a legacy characterized by warmth, charisma, and familial connections that oddly intertwine the worlds of Bollywood and real life.
