Mumbai, September 12, 2024 (Yes Punjab News)
The 2004 film *Phir Milenge* featured Shilpa Shetty in the lead role, with Abhishek Bachchan playing a pivotal character. However, one of the most surprising aspects of the film was Salman Khan’s appearance as Shilpa’s former lover, portraying an HIV-positive man—an unusual departure from his typical macho roles in the early 2000s. His character’s tragic death in the climax left fans both surprised and emotional.
Salman Khan’s One-Rupee Role
In a recent social media post, the film’s producer, Shailendra Singh, revealed that Salman Khan agreed to play the role for a symbolic fee of just one rupee. Singh explained the challenge of convincing one of India’s biggest stars to take on such a serious role. “At that time, and even now, Salman is one of the biggest youth icons.
So imagine convincing him to do a film on AIDS when he was seen as the Rambo or Terminator of India,” Singh shared. Despite the industry’s skepticism, Salman agreed to portray a character who contracts HIV and eventually dies, conveying a strong message to audiences across the nation.
Singh added, “Salman dies in the climax due to HIV. Obviously, his fans were not happy, but the message of the film reached the entire nation.”
Shilpa Shetty and Abhishek Bachchan’s Roles
The film *Phir Milenge* primarily followed Shilpa Shetty’s character, who is wrongfully terminated from her job after being diagnosed as HIV-positive. Abhishek Bachchan played her lawyer, offering her support during her legal battle. Salman’s extended cameo as her former lover added emotional weight to the storyline, which aimed to raise awareness about HIV and discrimination.
Revathi Shares Salman’s Commitment to the Film
Director Revathi, in an earlier interview with *Rediff*, had shared how Salman Khan volunteered for the role. “As for Salman, Shilpa spoke to him about this film. He then called me and said he wanted to be a part of it,” Revathi recalled. She was initially unsure of his commitment, but Salman reassured her, saying he was serious about participating in the film. “He has done this film literally for free,” she added.
In today’s era, Salman Khan commands fees of over Rs 100 crore for his films, making his decision to work for a symbolic one rupee even more remarkable.
Salman Khan’s Recent Projects: ‘Tiger 3’ and ‘Sikandar’
Most recently, Salman Khan was seen in ‘Tiger 3’, directed by Maneesh Sharma, which is part of Aditya Chopra’s ambitious spy universe, alongside films like ‘War 2’ and ‘Alpha’.
Looking ahead, Salman is set to star alongside Rashmika Mandanna in the action drama ‘Sikandar’. The film was announced this Eid and is scheduled for release next Eid. Despite suffering a rib injury, Salman has already resumed filming, with a viral photo circulating on social media showing his dedication to the project.
Grand Set and Shooting for ‘Sikandar’
According to reports, ‘Sikandar’ features an elaborate set designed to depict Dharavi and Matunga, which cost around Rs 15 crore. The shooting schedule will last 45 days, after which the crew will move to a palace in Hyderabad for the next phase. Despite his injury, Salman continues to push through with full dedication to his role.
The film also marks the return of director AR Murugadoss to Hindi cinema after an eight-year break, following his last film ‘Akira’ (2016). ‘Sikandar’ also reunites Salman with producer Sajid Nadiadwala, a pairing known for their past blockbuster successes such as ‘Kick’, ‘Judwaa’, and ‘Mujhse Shaadi Karogi’.
