Ahead of Sikandar, here's a walk through Salman Khan's iconic filmography

Salman Khan to soon return to silver screen with another blockbuster Sikandar

Over three decades, Salman Khan has charmed audiences with his onscreen charisma, action-packed performances, and box office dominance. As he gears up for his next big release, Sikandar, let’s take a look at his cinematic journey, from his early days to becoming one of the most bankable stars in Indian cinema.

The rise of Salman Khan

Salman Khan made his debut with Biwi Ho To Aisi in 1988, but it was Maine Pyar Kiya (1989) that catapulted him to instant stardom. Playing the lovestruck Prem to Bhagyashree's Suman, Salman won hearts and became Bollywood’s new romantic hero. The film’s massive success established him as a force to be reckoned with.

Throughout the 1990s, Salman delivered a string of hits that solidified his reputation. Films like Baaghi (1990), Saajan (1991), and Hum Aapke Hain Koun...! (1994) showcased his versatility, while Karan Arjun (1995) and Judwaa (1997) proved his ability to blend action and comedy. Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999) marked another high point, with his heartfelt performance earning widespread acclaim.

Reinventing himself as an action hero

The early 2000s were a mix of highs and lows for Salman. While films like Tere Naam (2003) and Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004) worked in his favour, he also faced setbacks with films like Chal Mere Bhai (2000) and London Dreams (2009) that failed to make an impact. However, he remained a fan favourite and bounced back with Partner (2007) and Wanted (2009), the latter marking his transformation into Bollywood’s go-to action hero.

By the end of the decade, Salman had successfully reinvented himself. His action-packed persona was further cemented with Dabangg (2010), introducing the iconic Chulbul Pandey. The film’s blockbuster success signaled the beginning of a new era for him.

The king of box office

If the 1990s made him a star, the 2010s made him a box office juggernaut. With Dabangg setting the tone, Salman delivered back-to-back hits, each one redefining his superstar status. Films like Ready (2011), Bodyguard (2011), Ek Tha Tiger (2012), and Dabangg 2 (2012) turned him into Bollywood’s most bankable actor.

However, it wasn’t just action films that worked for him. Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015) showcased his emotional depth, earning him both critical and commercial success. The film remains one of his highest-grossing movies to date. He continued his dominance with Sultan (2016) and Tiger Zinda Hai (2017), proving that his star power was unmatched.

Also Read: Ahead of Sikandar, a look at Salman Khan’s legacy of box office dominance with Eid releases

While Salman Khan has had some box office setbacks in recent years, his presence remains unshaken. Films like Bharat (2019), Radhe (2021), and Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan (2023) received mixed reactions, but his popularity has never waned. Tiger 3 (2023) reaffirmed his action-hero image and performed well commercially.

This Eid, all eyes will be on Sikandar, directed by AR Murugadoss. The film promises high-octane action, intense drama, and a powerful Salman Khan in a never-seen-before avatar.