Salman Khan Turns 60: Bollywood Bhai’s Box Office Power, Fitness and Life Story

Salman Khan often repeats a simple truth: what feels effortless at 20 becomes far more challenging at 40. Yet even after crossing 60, his popularity shows no sign of fading. Salman has always embraced demanding roles, and audiences continue to celebrate him for that spirit. He remains the box office Tiger whose films roar with impact, the Bigg Boss host who keeps viewers hooked, and Bollywoods most talked about eligible bachelor. His journey has been a mix of entertainment, stardom, and controversy. Here are some lesser known highlights from the life of Salman Khan as he enters his sixth decade.

Not Bhai, But Prem

Today, Salman Khan is universally called Bhai. However, during the 1990s, he was every young womans dream man, known affectionately as Prem. The name itself became symbolic of romance and charm. Many fans wished for a life partner like Prem, which explains why out of 12 films where Salman played characters named Prem, 10 turned into major hits. His romantic roles in films like Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Hum Aapke Hain Koun, and Maine Pyar Kiya created a strong youth following. Andaz Apna Apna later gained cult status, while movies such as Hello Brother showcased his mass appeal blended with humor.

More Than an Actor

Following in the creative footsteps of his father Salim Khan, Salman also has a flair for writing. He penned the story for the film Baaghi. Painting is another passion close to his heart. Whenever time permits, he sketches and paints. Salman personally unveiled the Jai Ho poster, which featured his artwork. He has even held exhibitions of his paintings, many of which were purchased by fellow celebrities. The proceeds were donated to charitable causes through the Salman Khan Foundation and Being Human, with a significant portion of his earnings also directed toward social welfare.

A Symbol of Strength

Salman Khan is inseparable from the image of physical power. His sculpted physique played a major role in popularizing gym culture across India. Youngsters aspired to build six pack abs like his, including actors such as Hrithik Roshan. Salman has also mentored and supported several industry newcomers, including Sonakshi Sinha, Sonam Kapoor, Arjun Kapoor, and Sonu Sood. Sonakshi made her debut opposite him in Dabangg.

Revival of Single Screen Theaters

In 2009, multiplex cinemas were rapidly expanding in cities like Mumbai, causing single screen theaters to lose audiences. That changed with the release of Wanted. Directed by Prabhu Deva, the film became a massive success and breathed new life into single screen cinemas for a period.

Open About Health Challenges

Unlike many stars who keep personal struggles private, Salman has spoken openly about his health issues. He revealed that he suffers from trigeminal neuralgia, a condition that causes intense facial pain, along with AV malformation, which involves abnormal blood vessels, and a brain aneurysm. Among these, the facial nerve disorder has troubled him the most.

Why He Never Married

For decades, Salman has faced one recurring question from the media: when will he get married? At 60, he finally explained his perspective. He believes marriage and separation can be emotionally and financially exhausting, and sustaining them is not always easy.

Desire for Fatherhood

Although marriage is not a priority for him, Salman has expressed a desire to have children someday. He has mentioned that having kids would be a joyful experience and added that his family would take responsibility for raising them.

Eid and Salman Khan Films

Eid has long been associated with Salman Khan releases. Films like Wanted, Dabangg, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Sultan, Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ka Jaan, and Sikander were timed for the festive season. He is currently working on Battle of Galwan, directed by Apoorva Lakhia, which is expected to release next year. However, an Eid 2026 release is uncertain.