Salman Khan enthusiasts were thrilled when it was announced that he would collaborate with Dharma Productions for the action-packed film, The Bull. This highly anticipated movie marked Salman Khan’s potential return with Dharma since his memorable cameo as Aman in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. However, by early 2024, the excitement turned to dismay as reports surfaced that The Bull was no longer in the works. Following an initial mahurat ceremony in December 2023, the film’s production faced significant hurdles. Rumors circulated, suggesting budget overruns and creative differences, primarily centering around Salman Khan’s suggested script changes, which the filmmakers ultimately rejected.
Despite Salman Khan’s latest film, Sikandar, grossing nearly Rs 200 crores at the box office, it fell short of being classified as a clear success. This added to fans’ frustration, as they criticized his choice of projects plagued by poor content and execution. An insider’s revelations to Bollywood Hungama further fueled public discontent, shedding light on the real reasons behind The Bull’s cancellation.
The actor’s affinity for The Bull’s plot was evident, as it intended to depict the story of a senior paramilitary officer mentoring his junior during an India-Maldives conflict. The film promised intense action and compelling drama, yet Salman Khan’s specific requirements prompted the director, Vishnuvardhan, to reconsider proceeding with the project.
According to a source, Salman Khan insisted on debuting Shera’s son, Abir alias Tiger, in the film. While Karan Johar and Vishnuvardhan initially had their sights set on casting Sidharth Malhotra as the junior officer due to his acclaimed role in Shershaah, they were unwilling to accommodate Salman Khan’s request. Sidharth Malhotra appeared to be the perfect choice, already gaining prominence for his portrayal of an army man. However, Salman Khan’s persistent attempts to influence the casting decision met with resistance, as Johar and Vishnuvardhan believed this change could compromise the film’s impact.
Dharma Productions had established a substantial budget of Rs 250 crores for The Bull, excluding actor fees, with Salman Khan’s payment alone starting at around Rs 100 crores. The team was determined to maintain a high standard and chose not to compromise on quality, leading to the ultimate decision to shelve the film. Fans, who had eagerly anticipated Salman Khan’s involvement, expressed disappointment, casting a shadow over the collaboration between these entertainment industry titans.
As the dust settles, the potential consequences of shelving The Bull remain unclear, though there is hope for future projects involving Salman Khan and Dharma Productions. The postponement leaves fans both crestfallen and hopeful, pondering what the prolific actor’s next move might entail in the ever-evolving cinematic landscape.
