In a captivating throwback video from the set of Dus Ka Dum, Bollywood superstar Salman Khan opened about his time in Jodhpur Jail, revealing a poignant memory associated with a steel mug he used during his incarceration.
Reflecting on his experience, Salman remarked, “Mere pass waha ki ek memory hai wahi jail ki. Wo jail mein wahi mug se nahana padta hai, usmein he khana dete hai aur usse hum dhote hai. Aur firr sab kuch karne ke baad main usse clean karke usko chamkata tha aur usmein apni shakal dekhta tha.”
Salman Khan's last incarceration at Jodhpur Central Jail occurred on August 24, 2007, when he was sentenced to a five-year prison term following a conviction by a lower court. This sentence was linked to a controversial case involving the illegal hunting of blackbucks in 1998. The actor's journey to Jodhpur was closely monitored by the media, with reporters capturing his every move.
Before departing from Mumbai, Salman, told the press, “Nobody has told me to get there, but I am going there as a responsible citizen who abides by the law.”
Upon arrival at the Jodhpur airport, Salman was met by a police team and taken directly to court. Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Ravi Shankar Sharma had issued a non-bailable warrant for Salman, as he had failed to appear in a previous hearing where his appeal to suspend the jail term was rejected. This failure to appear added to the gravity of the situation, amplifying the public’s interest and concern for the star.
During his time in jail, Salman faced a range of challenges, but he managed to maintain his spirits. The steel mug he described in the video became a symbol of resilience and reflection. It served multiple purposes: it was used for eating, drinking, and even washing. The act of cleaning the mug and looking at his reflection within it served as a metaphor for introspection, a way for the actor to connect with himself amidst the turmoil. As he noted, “Usmein apni shakal dekhta tha,” this simple act of gazing into the mug allowed him a moment of clarity in an otherwise chaotic environment.
Salman spent six nights in Jodhpur Jail before being granted bail on the evening of August 31, 2007. The Rajasthan High Court approved his release after he furnished a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh and two surety bonds of Rs 50,000. The anticipation of his release had generated a significant buzz, with hundreds of fans eagerly waiting outside the jail, hoping for a glimpse of their beloved star. The emotional scene unfolded as Salman emerged, waving to the crowd with folded hands—a gesture that illustrated his appreciation for their unwavering support.
His bodyguard, Shera, was present to receive him, ensuring his safe passage back to freedom. The fans’ ecstatic cheers resonated in the air, highlighting the deep connection Salman has cultivated with his audience over the years. He was whisked away in a police vehicle, a stark reminder of the circumstances surrounding his release, yet the atmosphere was filled with a sense of relief and celebration.
Following his release, Salman took a chartered flight back to Mumbai, marking the end of a tumultuous chapter in his life. However, the memories of his time in Jodhpur, particularly the reflections in the steel mug, remained etched in his mind. This episode not only served as a humbling experience for the actor but also offered him an opportunity for growth and introspection.
In the years following this incident, Salman has continued to remain a prominent figure in Bollywood, often facing controversies but also making significant contributions to various philanthropic efforts. The challenges he has encountered, including his time in jail, have shaped his public persona, adding layers to his character that fans resonate with.
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