Bollywood superstar Salman Khan is often recognized as one of the highest-paid actors in India, commanding fees exceeding ₹100 crore for his films. However, there was a notable moment in his career when he chose to accept a film role for just ₹1. This decision, made on his 60th birthday, stands out for its selflessness and the impact it aimed to create in society.
In 2024, producer Shailendra Singh revealed that Khan played a pivotal role in the 2004 film “Phir Milenge” for just ₹1. At a time when many actors were reluctant to engage with sensitive topics, this film confronted the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS. Salman portrayed Rohit, a character who is HIV-positive and faces a tragic end, a departure from the conventional heroic narratives often seen in Bollywood.
Singh recalled the challenges of convincing Khan to take on such a serious role, noting that the entire industry initially rejected the project. “Salman Khan charged ₹1 for one of my films, and in the climax, he actually died,” Singh explained. The film aimed to raise awareness about AIDS among Indian youth, an issue that remains critical. Despite the film’s intense subject matter, it reached wide audiences through various media channels, enabling important conversations to take place.
“Phir Milenge” was directed by Revathi and featured a strong cast, including Shilpa Shetty and Abhishek Bachchan. Although it was one of the first mainstream Hindi films to address HIV/AIDS, it struggled at the box office, earning ₹5.43 crore against a budget of ₹5.50 crore. Despite its commercial failure, the film’s themes and Salman Khan’s choice to participate resonated deeply, highlighting the potential for cinema to reflect and influence societal values.
Looking ahead, Salman Khan is set to appear in “Battle of Galwan,” directed by Apoorva Lakhia. This upcoming film will focus on the 2020 Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese armed forces, adding to Khan’s diverse portfolio. Scheduled for release in 2026, it promises to showcase more of the complexities of contemporary issues.