Why is Salman Khan Not Giving a Hit Film Nowadays?

Despite not having a hit film in the past four years, Salman Khan still carries a significant financial weight. With the combined budget of his upcoming films, he shoulders over Rs 750 crore. This makes him one of the highest-paid actors in Bollywood, highlighting the challenges he faces with his most recent projects.

Salman Khan's Upcoming Films

Tiger 3, starring alongside Katrina Kaif, is scheduled for an early 2022 release. With a budget of over Rs 300 crore, this film is anticipated to be the most expensive in Bollywood's history. Prior to this, 'Thugs of Hindostan' held the title of the most expensive Hindi film, with a budget of Rs 210 crore. The production of 'Tiger 3' is complete, having been shot in Austria, Russia, and Turkey. The film is the third installment of the successful franchise, where Khan portrays an Indian RAW agent.

Challenges Faced by Mid-career Actors in Bollywood

The challenges Salman Khan faces are common among mid-career actors in Bollywood. As he has crossed the age of 50, he faces the scrutiny of both the film industry and the public. The public often becomes tired of actors repeating the same action sequences, leading to a diminished audience appeal.

Socio-cultural Factors

Public perception is a significant factor. With increasing age, there is an expectation for actors to step into roles that fit their physical appearance. Salman Khan, often bald and balding, presents a challenge where his appearance can detract from his on-screen actions. Furthermore, the public's perception of him as more of a "pimp" than an actor has created an image that is hard to shake off.

The Weight of Public Expectations

Currently, public expectations are at a peak. However, this extends beyond Salman Khan. Even established icons, like Shah Rukh Khan, face similar challenges. The public's tolerance for repetitive action cinema is waning, and both Khans are seen as aging artists who are not yet comparable to the legendary Amitabh Bachchan.

Strategies for Mid-career Actors

To overcome these challenges, mid-career actors like Salman Khan have to diversify their roles and adapt to changing audience preferences. This involves taking on diverse roles, collaborating with new directors, and experimenting with different genres and storytelling techniques. For Salman Khan, it means proving himself with a successful film in a new direction, as his upcoming 'Tiger 3' may dictate future public perceptions.

Conclusion

Salman Khan's journey to staying relevant in the film industry is a testament to the challenges faced by mid-career actors in Bollywood. Despite the financial weight of his projects, his age and changing public perception remain significant hurdles. However, with innovative filmmaking and audacious role choices, Salman Khan can continue to captivate audiences and prove himself as a versatile actor.