Salman Khan. Just saying his name brings to mind a wave of action-packed scenes, larger-than-life persona, and an almost magnetic charm that has held audiences captive for decades. But, something seems different now. The “macho” star who once ruled the silver screen with a blend of raw power, charisma, and emotion is slowly fading into the shadows of a more subdued, tired version of himself. In a time when heroes like Allu Arjun and Yash are redefining stardom, many are beginning to ask: what happened to the Salman Khan we once knew?
The Man Who Defined Machoism- everything of him screamed “Hero”
In the 90s and 2000s, Salman Khan was the blueprint for what it meant to be a macho hero—effortlessly blending strength with style, vulnerability with swagger. He didn’t just have the physique; he had the attitude that made his every move on screen feel larger-than-life. Take Baaghi (1990) for instance, where he played a rebellious, heartthrob action hero who wasn’t just about flexing muscles, but exuding a raw energy that felt completely untamed. Then there was Judwaa (1997), where his double role gave us a glimpse of his comedic timing and charm, making us see that machoism wasn’t just about being tough; it was about being magnetic in every way. His iconic shirtless moments in films like Tere Naam (2003) weren’t merely about showcasing his body—they became an emblem of freedom, confidence, and that effortless cool only he seemed to master. Unlike the typical ‘tough guy’ of the era, Salman was always real—he brought a certain vulnerability to his characters, especially in films like Hum Saath-Saath Hain (1999), where his rugged exterior blended seamlessly with his lovable, caring side. By the time the 2000s rolled around, Salman had cemented his place as Bollywood’s quintessential ‘macho with a heart,’ someone who could be both the muscle and the soul of any film. He wasn’t just the hero you rooted for—he was the one you wanted to be.
Back then, his stardom was about his presence—his aura that seeped into every public appearance, every promotional event, and even his social media. His fans lived and breathed Salman, hanging on his every word, his every move.
But now, that charisma seems to be fading. Salman Khan himself has openly acknowledged that stardom doesn’t last forever. In a 2019 interview promoting Bharat, he remarked, “It will always fade away. And it is a huge task to keep it going for a long time,” as quoted by TOI. It’s a candid admission, one that perhaps speaks more to the man behind the screen than the larger-than-life character he portrays. This realisation, coupled with the physical and emotional toll that decades of stardom can take, might explain the fatigue seen in Salman’s recent work.
The Changing Times Of Stardom
Today, the spirit of stardom is evolving. Bollywood, like the rest of the world, is undergoing a massive transformation. Content is now king, and the idea of the “superstar” is slowly being replaced by an increasing focus on strong, meaningful narratives. This shift has been most evident with the rise of actors like Allu Arjun and Yash. While these actors are still relatively new compared to the titans of Bollywood, they’ve managed to carve a niche for themselves with their performances and undeniable screen presence.
Allu Arjun, for instance, doesn’t need to rely on a complex plot or high-budget set pieces to captivate his audience. His macho appeal, coupled with his dynamic dance moves and irresistible swag, keeps his fans coming back for more. Whether it’s his charismatic portrayal of Pushpa or his charm in films like Sarrainodu, Allu Arjun has successfully created a unique on-screen persona that lures in audiences. And let’s not forget his massive fanbase, which continues to grow by the day, especially with his undeniable appeal in the younger demographic.
Similarly, Yash’s portrayal of Rocky in KGF has broken all records. His character oozes the same kind of raw, unapologetic masculinity that Salman Khan used to embody in his prime. But what’s even more striking is how Yash’s charisma is just as powerful, if not more so, than his film’s actual content. His fans don’t just come to watch KGF for the plot—they come to watch Rocky in action, a star who commands the screen every time he enters.
In comparison, Salman Khan’s recent performances have felt tired. He was seen in Baby John, last, played a cameo; however it did not propel the impact that we expected. The exuberance and the fire that once set the screen ablaze now seem muted. His signature macho style, while still present, lacks the same sharp edge it once had. He’s no longer the Salman Khan who would step into the screen and electrify the entire room. Instead, he now seems more like an actor merely going through the motions. And this change isn’t just visible in his films—it’s evident in his public appearances as well.
The Price Of Fame
Salman Khan’s recent struggles, both personal and professional, are likely contributing factors to this shift. The tragic murder of Baba Siddique, a close associate of the actor, is one example of how the actor’s life has been overshadowed by dark, disturbing events. The murder, combined with the increasing number of threats Salman has received, including multiple messages from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, has taken a significant toll on him.
Imagine living under constant threat of violence—having to change your routine, your location, and your very identity to ensure your safety. The strain must be unimaginable, and it’s no wonder that Salman, once the epitome of physical and emotional resilience, is showing signs of wear and tear. The pressures of stardom, paired with personal losses and security threats, would be enough to wear anyone down. No one can maintain peak performance under such extreme pressure forever.
The Road Ahead
But here’s the thing: we’re not ready to give up on Salman Khan just yet. His legacy in Bollywood is undeniable. His films have been a part of the fabric of Indian cinema, and his impact on millions of fans cannot be understated. He may not have the same fire as he once did, but there is still hope for the “real” Salman Khan to make a comeback.
The audience, too, seems ready for it. We believe that the rise of Allu and Yash is all about Salman’s core audience loyalty shift. It’s time Salman claims it back. What Bollywood needs right now is not just another film star but a genuine hero, one who still believes in his own brand of stardom. If Salman can reconnect with that essence, the “macho” magic might just return.
Until then, we’ll keep waiting.
Because the real Salman Khan, the one we fell in love with, is still somewhere out there—waiting for the right moment to stand up again.
And it shall echo:
I love you all…
Doston, Na Koi Manzil Hai
Na Koi Saathi Hai
Phir Bhi Nikal Pada Hoon Ghar Se
Shaayad Jiski Talash Hai
Wohi Saathi Hai Wohi Manzil Hai
Hit It!!!
Or is it a millennial fan living in her own “bubble” of “nostalgia?”
