Bollywood actors whose careers were ruined by Salman Khan

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The Shadow of Stardom: Bollywood Actors Whose Careers Were Allegedly Ruined by Salman Khan

Mumbai, India – Salman Khan is one of Bollywood’s most influential and controversial superstars. With a career spanning over three decades, he has delivered blockbuster hits, cultivated a massive fan following, and built a reputation as both a kingmaker and a formidable force in the film industry. However, beneath the glittering surface of his stardom lies a darker narrative—stories of actors, singers, and filmmakers who claim their careers were derailed or destroyed due to their association, rivalry, or fallout with Salman Khan.

In this article, we explore some of the most talked-about cases, examining the complex web of power, relationships, and influence that shapes the destinies of many in Bollywood.

Salman Khan: The Double-Edged Sword of Bollywood

Salman Khan’s journey in the film industry is marked by both adulation and controversy. While he is celebrated for his charitable work, blockbuster films, and loyal fan base, he is equally infamous for his temper, feuds, and the alleged impact he has had on the careers of others. In Bollywood, where relationships often dictate opportunities, falling out with a superstar like Salman can have serious consequences.

Let’s delve into the stories of some prominent personalities whose careers took a nosedive after crossing paths with Salman Khan.

1. Vivek Oberoi: The Downfall After a Public Spat

Vivek Oberoi, son of veteran actor Suresh Oberoi, entered Bollywood with a bang in 2002 with the film “Company.” His performance as a gangster was widely praised, and he quickly became one of the industry’s most promising newcomers. That same year, his romantic film “Saathiya” with Rani Mukerji also became a hit, solidifying his position as a rising star.

However, everything changed in 2004 during the making of “Kyun! Ho Gaya Na…” with Aishwarya Rai. At the time, Aishwarya had recently ended her tumultuous relationship with Salman Khan. Rumors of a budding romance between Vivek and Aishwarya began circulating, which reportedly infuriated Salman. According to Vivek, Salman called him late at night, hurled abuses, and threatened him to stay away from Aishwarya.

Instead of staying silent, Vivek held a press conference at his home, publicly accusing Salman of harassment and threats. This move backfired spectacularly. Bollywood, known for its clannish loyalty, closed ranks around Salman. Producers and directors, wary of offending the superstar, began distancing themselves from Vivek. Offers for big-budget films dried up, and even Aishwarya, the woman at the center of the controversy, distanced herself from Vivek.

Vivek’s once-promising career never fully recovered. He continued to act in smaller films, but the golden opportunities of his early days were gone. Despite multiple public apologies, Salman never forgave him, and Vivek’s experience became a cautionary tale in Bollywood about the dangers of crossing a powerful star.

2. Arijit Singh: The Voice Silenced

Arijit Singh is one of the most beloved playback singers in India, known for his soulful voice and chart-topping hits. However, a seemingly innocuous incident at an award show in 2014 changed the course of his career. Salman Khan was hosting the event, and when Arijit came on stage in casual clothes, Salman jokingly asked if he had been sleeping. Arijit replied, “Aap logon ne sula diya,” implying the show was boring. Salman reportedly took offense at this comment.

What followed was a silent but effective blacklisting. Arijit’s songs, recorded for Salman’s films, were dropped and re-recorded with other singers. One notable example is the song “Jag Ghoomeya” from the film “Sultan,” which was originally sung by Arijit but replaced by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan at Salman’s insistence. Despite Arijit’s repeated public apologies on social media, Salman remained unmoved.

Arijit’s exclusion from major projects was widely discussed in the media, sparking debates about the power wielded by stars in Bollywood and the vulnerability of even the most talented artists.

3. Anurag Kashyap: The Director Who Was Dropped

Anurag Kashyap is now one of India’s most acclaimed filmmakers, but his early career was not without its struggles. Kashyap was initially chosen to direct the Hindi remake of the Tamil film “Sethu,” which became “Tere Naam.” While the producers wanted Salman Khan as the lead, Kashyap felt Salman was not suitable for the role of Radhe Mohan, a small-town lover with a rugged appearance. He even reportedly told Salman he would need to grow out his chest hair for authenticity.

This did not sit well with Salman. Soon after, Anurag Kashyap was removed from the project, and Satish Kaushik was brought in as director. “Tere Naam” went on to become a massive hit, but Kashyap was left out in the cold. For years, he struggled to find footing in mainstream Bollywood, often being sidelined from projects associated with Salman or his circle.

4. Sushant Singh Rajput: The Outsider’s Struggle

The tragic death of Sushant Singh Rajput in June 2020 sent shockwaves through the nation and sparked intense debates about nepotism, favoritism, and power dynamics in Bollywood. Sushant, who hailed from a non-filmy background, rose to fame through sheer talent and perseverance, starring in acclaimed films like “Kai Po Che!,” “MS Dhoni: The Untold Story,” and “Chhichhore.”

However, reports emerged that Sushant faced systematic exclusion from major projects, allegedly due to powerful industry camps. It was rumored that after a confrontation with Sooraj Pancholi (son of Aditya Pancholi, a close Salman Khan associate) at a party, Salman intervened and Sushant found himself losing out on film offers. His movies were handed over to other actors, and he reportedly felt isolated and disheartened.

While the full truth behind Sushant’s struggles remains complex and multifaceted, his case reignited conversations about the unchecked influence of Bollywood’s biggest stars and the consequences for those who fall out of favor.

5. Sonu Nigam and Sahil Khan: More Collateral Damage

Sonu Nigam, one of India’s most celebrated playback singers, also had a falling out with Salman Khan. After a disagreement, Sonu stopped singing for Salman’s films, and their professional relationship ended abruptly. Similarly, Sahil Khan, who starred in the film “Style,” reportedly left the industry after facing difficulties attributed to Salman’s influence and the broader culture of nepotism.

The Other Side: Salman Khan, the Kingmaker

It would be unfair to paint Salman Khan solely as a destroyer of careers. There are countless stories of actors, singers, and technicians whose careers were launched or revived thanks to his support. From launching newcomers like Katrina Kaif, Sonakshi Sinha, and Daisy Shah to helping struggling colleagues, Salman has often used his clout to uplift others. His charitable foundation, Being Human, has provided aid to countless individuals in need.

This duality—of being both a benefactor and a feared rival—defines Salman’s complex legacy in Bollywood.

The Power Dynamics of Bollywood

The stories of Vivek Oberoi, Arijit Singh, Anurag Kashyap, Sushant Singh Rajput, and others highlight the intricate and sometimes harsh realities of Bollywood. Influence, relationships, and unwritten rules often dictate who rises and who falls. While talent is essential, navigating the power structures of the industry can be just as critical.

Salman Khan’s story is emblematic of this system. His immense popularity and box-office draw make him a force to be reckoned with, but his personal equations can have far-reaching consequences for those around him.

Conclusion: Lessons and Reflections

The narrative of Salman Khan as both a maker and breaker of careers is a microcosm of Bollywood’s larger issues—nepotism, favoritism, and the dangers of unchecked power. While some may argue that these stories are a matter of coincidence or industry politics, the sheer number of similar accounts suggests a pattern that cannot be ignored.

For aspiring actors and artists, these tales serve as both a warning and a lesson in resilience. For the industry, they are a call for greater transparency, fairness, and respect for talent, regardless of background or personal relationships.

As Bollywood continues to evolve, the hope is that merit will triumph over favoritism, and that the dreams of countless artists will not be stifled by the shadows of stardom.