For the actor’s birthday, we round up his friends, colleagues for glimpses into the lesser known aspects of his life
Sanyukta Iyer, Avinash Lohana, Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; December 27, 2017)

1 Salman does not smoke, drink or eat non-vegetarian food on the sets of Sooraj Barjatya films.

2 While he turns down male directors for re-takes, Salman struggles to say ‘no’ to female crew.

3 He once hid in a bathroom to escape father Salim’s wrath. The patriarch broke the door open and gave him a beating.

4 In 1988, Salman was assisting filmmaker Shashilal Nair on Falak but walked out of the schedule mid-way because he was “bored”.

5 After Maine Pyar Kiya, a fan gifted Salman a huge sculpture of him and Bhagyashree in their signature pose. The statue still finds a place of pride in Galaxy apartments.

6 In 1998, an awards jury wanted to give Salman the ‘Best Supporting Actor’ award, passing over Manoj Bajpayee for Satya. Salman turned it down, arguing that Manoj deserved it.

7 During a Filmfare shoot in the ’90s, Karisma Kapoor rang up Salman when informed about his unavailability. The actor showed up instantly. Filmmakers took to calling Lolo every time they needed to convince Salman for a gig.

8 When a Brit journalist arrived in Mumbai in the ’90s to write a profile on him, Salman took them to Sangeeta Bijlani’s house, saying that she knew him better than anyone else.

9 The avid painter has moved on from canvas and paper to drift wood carvings.

10 Salman’s staff is encouraged to use his private gym.

11 While filming Jaan-e-mann, Salman was told that he should wear horizontal stripes to appear taller. He refused to wear anything else till the film’s release.

12 While filming Salaam-e-Ishq, director Nikkhil Advani looked at the monitor and screamed, “Ok Shah Rukh, ready…”. While over a 100 junior artistes and the crew froze in fear, Salman quipped, “Ready Karan, let’s shoot!”

13 Salman calls up mom Salma from the sets to inform her that he has finished eating his home-cooked meal.

14 When photographer Avinash Gowariker didn’t have a place to live, Salman gave him a room in his house. Avinash lived there for two years.

15 When the heroine of one of his films was dating another leading man, Salman pulled a prank by parking himself outside her hotel room with a few crew members and made suggestive noises.

16 The birthday boy loves Sushi.

17 During the Sri Lanka schedule of Ready, Salman overheard Anees Bazmee’s son Faizan say that he wanted to meet Shoaib Akhtar, who was in the same hotel as them, and got the Rawalpindi Express to bowl for Faizan in the hotel lobby.

18 During Hum Aapke Hain Koun, Salman had a cold that got worse in the presence of his Pomeranian co-star, Tuffy. He sneezed through the schedule for the love of dogs.

19 Salman likes listening to soft and romantic numbers.

20 When Katrina Kaif was shooting for an ad last year, Salman dropped by the set and whisked her off for a long drive.

21 According to Ramesh Taurani, everyone on the sets of Race 3 fears Salman’s predictions as most of them are believed to come true.

22 Sallu extends schedules by a day and sometimes a week if he is told that the light men and spot boys on set do not have another film starting immediately.

23 He believes the mangoes that grow at his Panvel farmhouse are the sweetest.

24 After a particularly tiring day, only his sisters or parents can convince him to attend an event.

25 Salman's directors have to convince him to give re-takes. If he is convinced (like he was during Sultan) he will do up to 50.

26 His poison is rum. He doesn’t drink anything else.

27 He waited outside Metro theatre after the first show of Maine Pyar Kiya to know the response. Just when he convinced himself that the film hadn’t fared too well, his ad-filmmaker friends Kailash and Arti Surendranath walked out and patted his back.

28 Salman never turns down women in need of employment and makes sure to check up on them after they land on their feet.

29 When producers are unable to get shooting permissions in Gulf countries, Salman bails them out by ringing Sheikhs and government officials in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Oman, to sort it out.

30 Salman prefers to address the media outdoors instead of his vanity van. He usually sits with four mosquito-repellent coils strategically placed near his feet.

31 During Sultan, Salman made sure that Ali Abbas Zafar counted four hours of his gym time as part of the film’s shooting schedule every day. So he shot for only five hours a day.

32 He thinks choreographer Vaibhavi Merchant makes him dance the best.

33 Salman’s films need a minimum of a four to six camera set-up because he prefers not giving multiple takes

34 After an international schedule of Ek Tha Tiger, Salman requested Aditya Chopra and Kabir Khan to create the set for the song “Mashallah Mashallah” in Mumbai so as to not upset his mother for staying away from home for too long.

35 In 2016, he turned down 15 “content-oriented” films because he believes that the audience only wants to see him in a “larger-than-life” avatar.

36 Last year, he arranged for brand new cycles for over a dozen street kids.

37 Unlike the two other Khans, Salman is not a gadget-geek and often refrains from using his mobile while on set. Neither does he use an iPad or play station.

38 While shooting Wanted, four women sweepers told him about abysmal working conditions and asked for new saris. Salman promptly arranged for a 100 saris.

39 While studying at St Stanislaus, he would often be punished by being made to kneel for running on the grass turf.

40 Salman has a cupboard full of shoes but prefers wearing his favourite black shoes everywhere.

41 Like his Bajrangi Bhaijaan co-star Harshaali Malhotra, Salman doesn’t like spicy food. On the sets, he’d taste the food before offering it to her.

42 On Bigg Boss, Salman often switches to Marathi mid-shoot; plays cricket and goes for long walks during breaks.

43 During Maine Pyaar Kiya, Salman would slip out during mealtime while everyone else ate together. He confided in co-star Alok Nath later that he preferred to eat alone as he was embarrassed of the amount of food he ate.

44 Salman hates winters.

45 When he has to host an awards function or present an award he always finishes that first and only then walks the red carpet.

46 He refuses rooms allotted to actors in studios and will only use his personal vanity van.

47 He never goes over to the director’s monitor to check his performance after a shot.

48 He greets paparazzi with a scowl but breaks into a smile after getting into his car.

49 Salman has imported 8 breeds of horses for his Panvel stable.

50 He doesn’t memorize his dialogues and mostly ad-libs during shoots. During dubbing, he reads the lines out loud and asks the filmmaker and editor to fix the continuity during edits.

51 His only requirement during shoots is that he should have sufficient outdoor space. He hates being cooped inside and his rooms are surprisingly devoid of frills for a star of his magnitude

52 Raveena Tandon recalls a photoshoot in the early ’90s during which Salman blew bubble gum into her face which landed on her nose, leading to a fight between the two. She told him she would only forgive him after she gets to blow gum in his face too.

Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; October 4, 2017)

Sangeeta Bijlani, who was among the first to take the leap from modelling to acting following her crowning as Miss India 1980, is set to give mothers a “shot at their dreams” with a beauty pageant in Dubai. Bijlani will curate and judge the event, which will specifically cater to women who have turned mothers in the last five years.

Reminiscing her days as winner of the coveted title, an experience that she says she will “cherish forever”, Bijlani tells mid-day, “Telling a woman that she isn’t eligible for a beauty pageant, only because she has given birth, is not a nice thing to do. A woman is beautiful at every age, and at all stages of her life. The society needs to offer more platforms to married women [to showcase their talent]. This event will give them a second shot at a dream that they thought would never see the light of the day.”

Sources suggest that the show will kickstart by the end of the year and will enjoy a two-month-long run on a video-streaming platform. The daily will showcase the journey of the participants — from their auditions, the grooming process and execution of fitness- related tasks — to the final bestowing of the title.

In a tell-all interview, Sangeeta Bijlani talks about her thoughts on the Mohammad Azharuddin biopic, her relationship with the cricketer and her future plans in B-Town
Sarita A Tanwar (DNA; September 4, 2017)

Is age just a number? I can’t help but wonder when I look at the fit and fabulous Sangeeta Bijlani. The former supermodel-actress is ready to take a tentative foot back in the world of films and TV, after a gap of over two decades. A lot has changed since Sangeeta was away. Including herself. Over some tea and sandwiches, she talks about her life, her choices, and her plan ahead. Read on...

You have been in Mumbai for some time now. The general perception is that you aren’t interested in acting. Is that correct?
It was a conscious decision to move back (to Mumbai) and explore other areas of my life. I was travelling a lot at one point and obviously didn’t have the time. My priorities were different at that stage. For some time — or a long time — I consciously kept away.

Were you getting offers all along?
I did get offers, but at that time, I wasn’t keen. Earlier, I was offered Shabd, which I didn’t do. I didn’t want to come to this space and do sensual scenes and seem desperate. Now, it is not a conscious decision of wanting to spread the word that I am interested. But if something really nice comes my way and I feel comfortable doing it, I will take it up because the kind of cinema they are making now is interesting.

Yes, like Sridevi came back with English Vinglish.
It was a fantastic film, and films like Parched and Pink are also being made. So, the industry has become more content-driven and that is very tempting. I am reading a script right now. If it appeals to me, then I may give it a nod.

Would you consider television too?
Television, yes, if it is as a judge on a show. If somebody came to me with that offer, I would take it up. I have started saying okay to things and I have started stepping out. And when you do that, automatically people start offering you work. I have been making appearances and stuff. I am enjoying it. I have got an offer for an ad too, so let’s see.

Apart from Salman Khan’s family, you have largely kept away from the industry. Was that a conscious decision?
I moved out of Mumbai, so I lost touch with people. Also, I just like being in my comfort zone. I have always been a private person. Though I feel I am in a different space right now. I am very open when I talk. I am easy about how things are and maybe because I am in complete acceptance of everything, I have evolved to a different space.

How different are you from how you used to be 10 years ago?
I feel just more evolved as a person perhaps because I feel more drawn towards spirituality now. I had my leanings even when I was acting but not many people know about it. Salman used to tease me about meditation even back then. I used to do it then, but not so much, because I had so much work happening that I used to get very less time. I began exploring it more when my mom passed away in 2005. When you lose somebody, who is really close to you, then you kind of go and search deeper. My dad is also into it; he is like my guru. I’ve learnt a lot from him. I got this knowledge from him.

You lost touch with all your friends from the film industry?
I was never in touch with the film industry. I would do my work and go back home. My mom was always with me. She travelled with me everywhere. Throughout my modelling and film career, she was always with me. It was just a comfort zone; you would get up and she would make my honey almond; she would pamper me with a glass of juice. It was such a comfort zone of having her around.

Star moms no longer accompany their daughters to sets and locations.
(Laughs) Maybe their daughters do not want them there.

Are you ambitious?
Honestly, I have never been very ambitious. I am a very laidback person. Whatever was offered to me, I just did it. I was just lucky that it all fell into my lap...

It’s different now. Everyone is very driven and competitive. And when you are not watching, you could lose a role to another actress.
It happened then, too, on a subtle level. But then, there was enough work for everybody. And there weren’t that many people. Now, every youngster wants to join the movies. It is like they are coming from every city and even from abroad. The girls from abroad are also looking for work in the industry.

A lot is being said about nepotism right now. Did you face it during your time?
No. Now there is a swarm of kids coming suddenly and it’s natural for people to rather go with a pedigree that is from the industry. It’s a tried-and-tested formula. It is more comfortable for the investor, producer and director as they already know them and have seen them. Most importantly, star kids have access. For a newcomer to enter, it is very tough. Right now, I don’t think there is space for a newcomer because this industry is swarmed with youngsters from the industry. You can call it nepotism or their destiny.

There was a time when models were considered bad actors, but today every second actor comes from a modelling background...
Everybody from Juhi (Chawla) to me to Aishwarya came from the modelling industry. Even Salman and Jackie (Shroff). We all did modelling for a few years; it was a great way to make a quick buck. It was exciting and you got trained to face the camera.

Something that a lot of people want to know — did you watch the Azhar biopic?
Yes, I did.

Did you like it?
I would have liked it if it were a biopic. It was fiction. Honestly, except for bits and pieces, they took cinematic liberties in the entire film. So it wasn’t really...

How was it watching yourself on screen with somebody else portraying you?
I couldn’t relate to it at all. I haven’t spoken about it, but I will now. The film didn’t make any sense. I wish they had actually shown the real story because it would have been worthwhile. Even the way they showed us meeting for the first time didn’t make sense. That wasn’t how we met.

Azhar wanted to be portrayed that way. I guess that was the aim of the film.
I don’t know about that. All it did was remind people about the match-fixing controversy.

What did you think of Nargis Fakhri? Would you have preferred someone else to play you?
Initially, they were going to take Bebo (Kareena Kapoor Khan) and that would have been fantastic because there is a similarity between us somewhere. I am not saying she looks like me or I look like her, but her mom used to say, ‘You both look more like sisters’. I remember Bebo telling me that Salman too would keep telling her that we look alike.

Are you in touch with the current lot of films?
I love watching films. I watch almost every film.

Any favourite actor and actress?
I like Alia Bhatt. She is a natural. She doesn’t care how she looks or how her face is because that is not important when you are acting. You don’t just need to look beautiful, which is what’s happening to most of the girls. They have become so stiff that they can’t smile and they can’t express. They cannot crinkle their eyes. My niece, who is 21, also has crinkles around her eyes when she smiles and she has laugh lines. So, why is everybody panicking about how they look? They are doing things and can’t even move their mouths! I understand there is pressure and maybe people, who are signing them want them to be perfect, which is fine, but only to a certain extent. But people are obsessed. I don’t understand what this trend is of making their mouths so plump that it cannot move. Why this obsession? Indian girls are so beautiful the way they are. I don’t know what is happening to the industry.

You have been writing a blog and talking about different things. Would you eventually publish a book?
Who knows? I am open to the idea. I am enjoying writing the blog. I write on paper. I feel the energy that flows with the hand is different. I feel that makes a difference. Then I type it and my friend posts it for me. I still don’t know how to post.

That’s good because very few people write anymore.
I feel there is a magical energy, which transfers from the hands. You feel that and it is like going through. My next blog is about how children, mostly sons, abandon their fathers.

Why just fathers?
It is a current hot topic. I feel that I am already revealing part of my blog, but I feel that no parent should transfer their property to their sons, which is what has happened to one of my friends’ brother. I have written some lovely blogs on love. I have written on marriage, but not trouble in the marriage.

Now that we’re talking about it, are you still married? There is a lot of ambiguity.
(Smiles) Let me just say that I am in a happy space of my own.

Are you in touch with Azhar?
Yes, I am. We are cordial.

How did you manage that?
It’s never happened that I’ve NOT been in touch with him. So, maybe my relationships are like that. I am in a happy space of my own. I have reached a space where I can be a silent observer to whatever is occurring around me. Maybe I have removed myself from that space, not intentionally, but it is a process, which has occurred over a period of time. Maybe because I meditate a lot, I can look at things and just be an observer.

Your views on marriage, infidelity, and relationships have changed a lot, right?
Yes, they have.

They might sound shocking to most people, who do not buy into that.
Yes, but that is my way of looking at life. So, I feel it is okay. It is a manufacturing defect in men. If they are attracted to somebody, they want to be with that person. I feel it is a man’s need to go out, and he will go out. He is made that way.

Would you accept it if you were in a relationship and the guy was cheating on you?
If I do not feel comfortable being in that space, I would move out. If I feel it is okay, I would stay...

You see a lot of filmy marriages like that. Everyone knows that the husband is having an affair with some actress and the wife stays back and everybody questions why she is in it. And whether it is because of the children?
I don’t think it is for anybody. It is feeling the comfort of that space or maybe a known devil is better than an unknown one or maybe she feels she belongs in that space...

You think that’s okay?
I definitely wouldn’t judge somebody. I feel it is okay because you do not know what that person is going through and it is unfair to stand in judgment and say how could you tolerate this and how can you take this sh*t! People are just seeing that part of it and isolating the rest of the life that she spent with that man. She may have spent 25 or 30 years with him and they are like, ‘Remove yourself from that space’. You cannot because your whole life changes then and it is a journey of life where, after a point, maybe even that lady may have isolated herself from whatever that is occurring and she may just like how men compartmentalise their lives. You leave that part and don’t want to deal with it, and that’s okay.

Men just use “we are wired this way” as an excuse to cheat.
Maybe they genuinely are. It is very sad if they are looking from body-to-body because that means they are searching for something within them, which they want to find in other bodies, which they will never get and they will always be dissatisfied because that space they are looking for lies within themselves. You should feel sorry for such a man, and I do.

You don’t feel the need for a companion?
I have that option. We are social beings and we do need people and so it is a need then. It is not about love and sex. I feel love happens when there is a chemical reaction in the brain. At that point, the dopamine levels are high and one is in a drugged state, and believes one is head-over-heels in love. But that happens when another body’s chemical reaction and your body’s chemical reaction gets in frequency with each other and come into that space of vibration. I feel everything is about energy. It is not love. You may call it love, but it is just a trigger in your brain. Then you go through that space and after a point, it is gone. So, you want to feel that feeling again. Some people want to feel that feeling again and take another partner. They want to feel the same sexual feeling they did, so they find another partner and then they don’t get it there and it becomes a routine for them. In the bargain, they lose themselves somewhere. As for me, I feel I am my best companion. I love my alone time. I am not a recluse, I do not isolate myself, I hang out with my friends, I travel, I do stuff and so it is about the frequency. So, that has to occur again, the vibration has to occur. If that doesn’t trigger then...

You are open to that happening?
I am open to anything happening. I am open to accepting people with multiple relationships.

When people go through a break-up or a bad relationship, they become bitter. You have just become the opposite.
Yes, I have become the opposite. And I am not pretending.

I know. It comes across.
That is what Salim (Khan) uncle had told me once: ‘Sangeeta, till 30-35, a woman looks like what she is on the inside. Ultimately, what you are within starts showing on your face’. It is so true because what you feel within does exude with time.

BOMBAY TIMES (December 28, 2016)

----------------------

Actor's birthday bash ended with family and friends being gifted gold chains
Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; December 28, 2016)


-----------------
MID-DAY (December 28, 2016)

Salman Khan brought in his 51st birthday on Monday night amid family and friends at his Panvel farmhouse. The star’s mother, Salma, and rumoured girlfriend, Iulia Vantur, were by his side, when he cut a cake that spelt out his charity foundation, Being Human. The star also launched his signature jewellery line on his big day.

Choreographer-turned-filmmaker Remo D’Souza was spotted making merry at the bash, adding credence to the buzz that Salman is slated to star in his next. The guests included Bipasha Basu, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Shweta Rohira (Salman’s rakhi sister), and Sushant Singh Rajput. The oh-so-generous Sallu even gifted several guests some Being Human jewellery as return gift. Bips didn’t waste time in flaunting the pendant on social media.

MUMBAI MIRROR (December 27, 2016)

Salman Khan along with his parents, Salim and Salma, Romanian girlfriend Iulia Vantur, and close friends, Beena Kak, Sangeeta Bijlani, Daisy Shah and Ashley Rebello brought in festive cheer with sugarcane juice and a larger-than-life Christmas tree at his Panvel farmhouse.

Iulia who arrived with Sallu on Saturday night immediately jumped into prep for the actor’s 51st birthday. The three-day celebrations flag off on Monday night and Ranbir’s sister Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, Salman’s sister Arpita Khan along with hubby Aayush Sharma, younger brother Sohail Khan with wife Seema and son Nirvan, Pulkit Samrat’s ex-wife and his rakhi sister Shweta Rohira, are expected to join the party at Arpita Farms, along with several of his Bollywood’s friends.
----------------------
DJ at superstar’s Panvel bash tonight gives a peek into his playlist
Sonil Dedhia (MID-DAY; December 27, 2016)

Salman Khan turns 51 today and like every year, all roads will lead to his Panvel farmhouse. Apart from his family and close friends, the Sultan actor’s guest list includes industry colleagues and ex-contestants of Bigg Boss, a reality show that he hosts. Salman’s rumoured ladylove, Iulia Vantur is also expected to be a part of this big, fat party.

A source close to the actor reveals that preparations have already begun with many of the guests arriving at his farmhouse last evening itself. The festivities are likely to continue for a week with family bringing in the New Year together. Security, too, has been beefed up to avoid gatecrashers.

Making his birthday special for his fans, the actor will launch his own line of fashion jewellery and an app called Being In Touch, the details of which will be revealed by him on D-Day.

DJ Willy, who will be entertaining the guests today, reveals a lot of retro tracks are on the playlist. “Salman bhai and I connected over retro music. His favourite track is River Of Dreams by Billy Joel; he requests me to play that at least four to five times. He also loves listening to Phil Collins and U2. Apart from that, I will play the usual Bollywood numbers, including the ones from bhai’s films.”

Apart from hosting Bigg Boss, Salman will soon wrap up director Kabir Khan’s next Tubelight, which is scheduled to release on Eid 2017. The actor will then collaborate with Sultan director Ali Abbas Zafar for Tiger Zinda Hai, which is a sequel to Kabir Khan’s 2012 blockbuster Ek Tha Tiger, and pairs him with former girlfriend Katrina Kaif.

Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; November 26, 2016)

Salim Khan turned 81 on Thursday and the Khandaan scripted a memorable birthday for him. The celebrations begun with a private screening of the 1975 release Sholay at a suburban theatre. Salim and his erstwhile partner Javed Akhtar had penned the curry Western. Only the veteran’s close friends were invited. Later in the day, the family turned up in full force.

Besides his three sons—Salman, Arbaaz and Sohail—and two daughters, Alvira (who came with husband Atul Agnihotri) and Arpita (who was accompanied by husband Aayush and son Ahil), there was Sangeeta Bijlani, Sajid Nadiadwala and Salman’s rumoured ladylove Iulia.

After the party, Salman left for Lonavala to shoot an episode of his reality show, Bigg Boss, with Vidya Balan.

Salim when contacted said, “I wanted to spend the day with family and friends with whom I go for walks at night.”

Sangeeta Bijlani reached out to her former husband, concerned about her presentation in his biopic
Upala KBR (DNA; May 10, 2016)

Sangeeta Bijlani is concerned about how she will be presented in the biopic of her former husband Mohammed Azharuddin. When he sold the rights to his life’s story, he made sure that he is protected by a contract. The parts of his life that he wants whitewashed, will be done. Sangeeta is worried that she might not come out looking as positive in the film.

Says a source, “Sangeeta hasn’t been in touch with Azhar in years... Since the time they divorced in 2010, they have kept out of each other’s way. She fears that the movie will not show her in a positive light. By now, it is known that Nargis Fakhri is playing her in the film, so whether she wants it or not, she is connected to the film. Even Sangeeta’s Oye Oye song is part of her portrayal in the film. So, she called Azhar and she voiced her apprehensions. And she expressed a desire to watch the film. Since then, they have kept regularly in touch. Azhar informed her that he too hasn’t watched the film and has asked the producers for a trial. But everything is being kept tightly under wraps till the release.”

The fun and quirky Nargis Fakhri says she isn’t attracted to cricketers, co-stars or close friends... just yet
Upala KBR (DNA; May 2, 2016)


Have you met the real-life Mohammad Azharuddin?
I met him a couple of times. He’s a very nice person. We talked about regular things, nothing about the film or his life. I haven’t met Sangeeta Bijlani or Naureen. He is the only person I have met who is connected to the film. I didn’t take any inputs from him. We spoke about Hyderabad, the history of the city and the forts there as I love history.

What made you accept this role?
I enjoy watching documentaries and biopics, so I found the script interesting. I like to gain knowledge and learn about things that happened in history. I always joke that we humans are nosy because we like to know about other people’s business and their personal lives. Azhar was interesting to me because I didn’t know anything about him and when people would tell me stories about him, there was so much emotion attached to it. I found it interesting that after all these years, people were still so emotional about what had happened. So for me, to know that it was a true story based on events in this great cricketing icon’s life, made it really interesting and I wanted to be a part of it.

What fascinated you about Sangeeta’s character?
The glam factor. She’s so glamorous even to this day. I don’t even know how she stays so beautiful. I want to know her secret so I hope to meet her one day and when I do, I will ask her about her health and beauty secrets (laughs). Apart from the glam factor I am very curious about humans and relationships. I always ask questions to people who are married or divorced or dating about how their relationships work, what are their troubles because I want to know. The one thing that we all want to find is to live happily ever after but I think that’s maybe not a reality. So it’s very interesting to see Azhar’s love story unfold and at the same time see how it is when the other person gets left behind or to understand the human process of why we fall in love with someone else, why love ends for another... Azhar is the journey of love, of the ups and downs of love.

Who did you feel sympathy for — Naureen or Sangeeta?
I feel sympathy for both the characters because I can understand being left behind and I can understand being in love. When you are in love you can do crazy things and you don’t realise what you are doing and you try your best to be proper and a good human being but it’s not always possible. Things are not always in black and white. It can’t always be this-is-this and this is how it has to be. A great part of the story is that this great cricketer, a top actress and this regular woman are all so human. Whether one is a sports star, a movie star or a housewife, it doesn’t matter as we all have emotions, we are all humans.

If you were caught in an elevator with Sangeeta Bijlani and Salman Khan what will you do?
I don’t know maybe I would get really shy… I am a very shy person actually so I am really not that funny but since I know Salman and he has a great sense of humour, he would probably say something funny to me and I can say something funny back. I am sure Sangeeta has a great personality and they are good friends so who knows (laughs)? It all depends on how long we are all stuck in the elevator!

Most relationships between actresses and cricketers don’t work, agree?
My thoughts are that if you look at every human being on this planet and every relationship you will see the same thing. The problem is that the regular people are not in the news and in the public eye. That’s the difference. I think it has more to do with humans than with what you are. An athlete or an actress doesn’t see each other so often and both have their own lives, a ton of money and they need anybody. In relationships, while usually two people stay together out of love, sometimes they also stay together for the wrong reasons too because one person is dependent on the other. I love the fact that women have more independence today to opt out of a relationship which they have outgrown. I don’t think being in the public glare has to do with anything. It just makes more news.

Do you see yourself dating a cricketer?
I would say no right now because you just never know what life gives you. Never say never. I just feel that because my life is so hectic right now I would want more of a stable person. Cricketers lead erratic lifestyles as actresses so I would need an anchor to keep me rooted.

Who is the hottest cricketer?
Nobody. I don’t find anybody hot right now. I haven’t really looked. I am not in the head space as there’s so much work happening and promotions. I am thinking of getting these promotions over with, getting Banjo done and then me taking a vacation.

Sachin Tendulkar or MS Dhoni, which biopic you’d like to see?
Cricket is not my forte, I don’t like any sports in fact, I just enjoy every sport whenever friends or boyfriends take me to a game. I never followed any sport nor am I a sports person. When everyone asks me about it, I feel strange because I feel everyone loves sports and I don’t really have an attachment to any one particular sport. I don’t follow an athlete or movie star or musician for that matter. I’ve met MS Dhoni so I would have to say that maybe I will watch his biopic. I met him during an ad shoot and found him to be a lovely guy. He’s young, family-oriented, very normal and down-to-earth and easy to get along with. Dhoni’s not a very talkative person but he’s a nice guy.

Would you endorse an IPL cricket team?
Yes, why not? The more I get involved with stuff that has to do with cricket, the more I learn because then I am around people who talk about it. I wouldn’t mind… I have gone for some IPL matches yet I still get confused (laughs).

Recently you said you felt uncomfortable kissing Emraan Hashmi because his moustache could have been made from pubic hair.
Oh gosh! I have a bit of toilet humour. I have a potty mouth, I am sorry. Everybody has a different sense of humour I guess. Yes, I have to admit that Emraan’s moustache was really weird (laughs) and it was creeping me out. It looked like one of one of those pervert moustaches which peeping Toms sport which you see on American TV. I was like wondering how do they make these things because the hair is a weird type of hair so I would think, ‘Eeeww it’s not very nice feeling and looking!’

You have a very quirky sense of humour. Where does it come from?
A lot of people made fun of me when I was growing up in New York and you develop a sense of humour to laugh at yourself. Kids are mean when they are young. I was chubby and I couldn’t dance very well so everyone made fun of me. Now I can tell people ‘Look at me now! I can dance! Screw everyone!’ I never fit in as I was always the outsider. I was never a part of gangs and cliques that kids form. I don’t like to be grouped into something. I was always everyone’s friend but no one’s friend. Also, when kids start drinking and doing other naughty things that I didn’t want to do, that was the another thing that pushed me away from them. So I spent a lot of time alone and that’s when I developed my sense of humour. It may seem cool now but as a kid it’s not because then you are struggling and sad thinking nobody is your friend and you are all alone.

DNA (April 30, 2016)

While India’s ex-captain and cricketer Mohammed Azharuddin and his first wife Naureen are happy with the way the biopic Azhar has shaped up, buzz is the other main character — Sangeeta Bijlani is upset with the way she has been portrayed in the film. Says a source, “Sangeeta is apprehensive that she may be portrayed in a weak light. While she has told people around her that she’s not keen to watch the film she has been asking people how they have shown her relationship and marriage to Azharuddin.”

Sonali Joshi Pitale (MID-DAY; April 9, 2016)

The makers of Azhar biopic are set to recreate the song Oye Oye from Tridev (1989), as reported by hitlist on April 1. Now we hear that Mandana Karimi, who was shortlisted to feature in the song alongside Nargis Fakhri, is no longer a part of it. Apparently, Fakhri felt attention from her character would be diverted if the song featured known faces.

Says a unit source, “The song is an important part of the film since Tridev starred Sangeeta Bijlani, who was married to Mohammed Azharuddin for 14 years. The song is being shot on a grand scale and we were looking to cast some relatively known faces alongside Nargis, who essays Sangeeta’s role in the film. We had shortlisted Mandana to be a part of the song since she has worked with us in the past.”

However, Nargis apparently wasn’t too comfortable about well- known faces being cast in the song and requested the makers to rethink their decision. “It wasn’t Nargis’ decision. The team wanted to cast new faces. So, Mandana, who had earlier agreed to do the song, was told that she was no longer part of it,” adds the source. While Mandana, Nargis and the film’s spokesperson remained unavailable for comment, a source associated with the project confirms the story.

DNA (April 6, 2016)

We know that Salman Khan will next be doing the Hindi remake of south film Kshanam to be produced by Sajid Nadiadwala. The story is about a guy who is approached by his ex girlfriend to help rescue her kidnapped daughter. The movie is a big hit down south. However, it is the part about the hero helping his ex that reportedly interested Salman. Interestingly, his ex-flame Sangeeta Bijlani is looking at making a comeback to films. What’s more this model-turned-actress has been making a lot of public appearances, and is looking stunning. This film seems perfect for her return, no?

Nargis Fakhri on filming a romantic song with 'Azhar' Emraan Hashmi
Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; April 1, 2016)



Nargis Fakhri plays Sangeeta Bijlani, former Indian skipper Mohammed Azharuddin's second wife and Miss India 1980, in Tony D'Souza's Azhar biopic. But she has yet to meet the glamorous model-turned-actress. "I did see some of her movies, but she hasn't done one in a really long time. Researching a person has become easy, thanks to the internet," Nargis told Mirror between shots on the sets of Banjo, also featuring Riteish Deshmukh, in Mumbai.

She was constantly told what Sangeeta is like, how she was perceived while in the limelight and how she is remembered as by people on the sets. "I see her as a statuesque model-actress and a fashion icon. I have been associated with the fashion business but we are completely different personalities," the actress adds.

Nargis, who has wrapped up all her portions for Azhar, describes her co-star, 'serial kisser' Emraan Hashmi as "a smart conversationalist" and recalls filming a romantic song sequence. "I probably didn't enjoy filming the song as much as he did. Lots of kissing happened... In fact, there was so much of it that at one point I wasn't sure if they were retakes, a part of the song, or someone playing a prank on me," she guffaws.

Apart from Azhar and Banjo, the actress will be seen in director duo Sajid Farhad's Housefull 3, for which she is simultaneously dubbing. She also has a special appearance in Rohit Dhawan's Dishoom. "I am swamped, I haven't had the chance to think about what kind of films I want to do next. I'm not thinking about what's coming my way," she reflects, revealing that "be wise, trust your gut, create goals and don't forget to stop and smell the roses," is her mantra.

Contrary to rumours, Nargis reveals that she has filmed extensively for Azhar, and that her portions have not been edited out. The grapevine hardly flusters her. Instead, she chooses to discuss how much fun it was dolling up in clothes to play a '90s star. "The styling was fun. But I wouldn't take the clothes home because we're in the 21st century. That would be a major faux pas," she jokes.

Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; February 15, 2016)

Who is Salman Khan? The boy from Indore who loved the dirt track or the Mumbai superstar who’s as famous for his roles as his romantic life? New book looks to actor's family and friends for answers
MID-DAY (December 27, 2015)

In an excerpt from Being Salman, by Jasim Khan, Salman’s aunt Sufiya Khan speaks of his fondness for good food.

Salman has always liked good food. He would often say, ‘Aunt, make kheer for me, make kebabs for me.’ Earlier the house had a huge compound with many trees. He loved to pluck the fruits and eat them. He would never let a bottle of sherbet last for long in the house.

A whole bunch of children used to gather at our home. They would eat and play together. The children would eat fruits, climb the trees and ride bicycles in the compound.


Little Salman takes a bath. Photograph courtesy: Naeem Khan and PENGUIN BOOKS INDIA

Sufiya Khan swears by the goodness of Salman’s heart. ‘He has the unblemished heart of a child. Salman is very simple and gullible. He loves children. He cannot see tears in the eyes of any child. Every child is a darling to him.’

Salman’s uncle Naeem Khan says that Salman was different from the other kids — naughty and stubborn. "He never listened to anyone once he had decided to do something. He had developed an early interest in stunts. At the age of twelve, he could jump up to three metres on wheels. Sometimes he took his bicycle to stony paths, and he could balance it even on stairs".

Cousin Mubin Khan was his playmate. Mubin says he cannot count the number of times they had fallen while attempting the stunts. It would often break the bicycle altogether. But the bruises could never deter them from taking risks.

Mubin also reminisces about Salman’s love for nature. "He loved to walk in the woods. Nights spent outdoors were special to him. Salman was the only one in the group who loved to drive his jeep on dirt roads. Life in the wild has always enchanted Salman. He loves remote villages, relishing bullock-cart rides and milking cows and buffaloes; he would then gulp down the raw milk."


Salim Khan with wife Susheela Charak and their two eldest kids, Salman and Alvira

Matin Khan, another cousin of Salman’s, recalls an adventure: "Our childhood was full of fun. We roamed the villages and fields in the jeep and performed all sorts of bike stunts on those dirt roads. We would climb trees and eat fresh fruits. Once Salman broke his hand while performing a stunt; we were in a neighbouring place called Bardari - we have our land there - we were racing and his bike slipped.

Bardari village is situated a few kilometres away from Salman’s ancestral house. This was the place where all his cousins and friends would meet to play. Mubin Khan remembers:

We would go to faraway places on jeeps and motorcycles. We often chose mud roads. Sometimes the vehicles would be stuck in the mud. We enjoyed pulling them out of it. The whole gang would jump into the well and swim together. This was the kind of family enjoyment we had.



Salman (left, standing) with his brothers Arbaz (right, standing) and Sohail (middle), sister Alvira, and two cousins

All of Salman’s relatives recount that Salman liked playing more than academics. This was one of the reasons why Salim Khan sent him away to Scindia Boarding School in Gwalior. Counted among the top four schools in the country, it was originally built for the education of royal pupils.

But even such a high-profile campus could not motivate Salman’s heart and soul towards studies. At last, Salim Khan had to take him back to Mumbai, to study at St. Stanislaus Convent High School.

He usually avoids questions on his personal life. From Sangeeta Bijlani to Katrina Kaif, there have been women galore in his life. But few are aware of his first love.

Here is what Salman Khan’s mother Salma Khan said in an interview to Filmfare magazine in 1990: ‘My children never hide anything from me. I am more like a friend to them. They share every secret with me. Salman has had girlfriends since the age of thirteen. I have always encouraged him to bring them home.’

Salman’s Bollywood affairs have been much talked about.

However, one of his love stories has remained hidden from the limelight. That too a love which was on the verge of culminating in marriage. But destiny had something else in store.

Many of Salman’s friends confess it was a time of great emotional upheaval for him. Many other beauties passed through his life after that. But none of them could turn into a life partner. Salman has been questioned umpteen times about his marriage. His standard answer has been: ‘My marriage was averted many times. Perhaps God was kind to me. You can see from the married ones what I mean.’

He has admitted on India TV’s show Aap Ki Adalat that he has had five girlfriends in his life. He was rather slyly asked by the interviewer, ‘People associate you with two things: boozing and womanizing, which of these are true?’ ‘Both are true,’ answered Salman. ‘I have a very poor ratio in terms of girlfriends. I have had five girlfriends in forty-eight years. It is a very poor ratio.’

Four out of these five girlfriends are well known to the world. However, the fifth has always remained a mystery. Salman has always remained tight-lipped about this episode of his life.

This story dates back to the time when Salman was a student of St. Xavier’s College in Mumbai. He was in his second year, but was mainly focused on his Bollywood career. As the grapevine has it, one Shaheen Jaffrey entered his life during this time. Shaheen is the maternal granddaughter of the famous star Ashok Kumar. His daughter Bharti was remarried to actor Saeed Jaffrey’s brother, Hamid Jaffrey. The couple had two daughters, Jeniv Advani and Shaheen Jaffrey. So Shaheen is also Saeed Jaffrey’s niece.

Shaheen has been a model by profession. She has strong connections with Bollywood. Her niece Kiara Advani has corroborated that Shaheen indeed was the first one to steal Salman’s heart. Kiara, who entered Bollywood with the movie Fugly in 2014, said this during an interview to the Times of India:

Salman used to date Shaheen long ago. It is very much possible that she was his first love. My mother knows Salman for a long time as he has grown up in Bandra. He would always say to my mother that one day I will be a big star. Shaheen and Salman had been together for a long time. They used to go cycling together. My mother introduced Salman to Shaheen. She had been to Salman’s home on a number of occasions.

According to some accounts, Salman was nineteen when he was smitten by Shaheen. Salman’s red sports car was frequently spotted at the gate of St. Xavier’s College where Shaheen studied.

It is said that the two were just about to tie the knot. Then Sangeeta Bijlani, the famous model, entered the plot. People say Sangeeta was a regular visitor to the same health club at Hotel Sea Rock where Salman and Shaheen used to go. Sangeeta was smarting from the pain of her break-up with her boyfriend Binju Ali at that time.

The real story of Salman’s and Shaheen’s parting of ways is still a mystery. However, we do know that Shaheen Jaffrey joined Cathay Pacific airlines after Salman bid adieu to her.

Sangeeta Bijlani saw a chaste and sensitive human being in Salman Khan and soon they became close. It was a casual relationship in the beginning, but soon flames of passion ignited between the two. Sangeeta was older than Salman, and Salman was taken by her emotional maturity. He was at a crossroads and had no idea where to go.

According to gossip at that time, the Salman-Sangeeta affair lasted for six years, ending in 1994. Sangeeta admitted that she had parted ways with Salman. She had become close to Salman’s family. She explicitly said, ‘I regret the break-up because I had to distance myself from Salman’s family. They treated me as one of their own. I cannot repay the affection I got from that family. The moments spent in that home, on its balcony, are unforgettable. How can I ever forget those moments?’

The media was rife with speculation about Salman’s and Sangeeta’s marriage. Stardust even announced the couple was going to tie the knot on 27 May 1994. Sangeeta Bijlani was prompt in her denial. ‘I know you will not trust me. But wait for the date. You will find me unmarried the next day,’ she said. Instead, she went a step ahead and parted ways with Salman.

Salman’s aunt Sufiya delves more on this break-up without mentioning names:

:All the relatives were awaiting the marriage. Even the month of marriage had been decided. I do not want to take names, though I can confirm that she was not Somy Ali. We were just waiting for the announcement of the date of marriage. It was almost final. Then suddenly the circumstances changed.:

It was left for others to conclude that the one who wrecked the relationship was Somy Ali. Somy Ali was just sixteen when she entered Bollywood in 1992. She had come with her mother from Pakistan to become an actress in Mumbai. Dharmendra signed her for Jaan opposite Bobby Deol.

...The moment she quit Dharmendra’s movie, she became Salman’s heroine in the movie Buland. Friendship led to love, and undoubtedly this was what led to Salman’s break-up with Sangeeta Bijlani. Somy Ali confessed to the New York Times in 2012: ‘I was so ambitious that I forgot Salman was with somebody else. This was morally wrong.’


With actress Somy Ali. Photograph courtesy: Varinder Chawla

Sangeeta Bijlani and Somy Ali remained in Salman Khan’s life for the longest period of time. Both enjoyed a close relationship with his family. This author tried to inquire of Salim Khan why Salman’s marriage had to be cancelled at the last minute. ‘Every romantic relationship starts with the promise of marriage. Sometimes, it comes out later that the two are not cut out for each other. They have different ambitions. The guy may want a woman who can manage the home, but the girl may have different ambitions,’ said Salim Khan. This author asked Salman’s aunt Sufiya if she had ever prodded him for marriage. This is what she had to say: ‘My husband’s brother was a bachelor for life. He stayed with us. “At least one person in the family must be like the elder uncle,” he would say.’

— Excerpted with permission from Penguin Books India from Being Salman by Jasim Khan


Salman’s cousin Mubin Khan posing in front of the jeep that Salman used to learn driving on

Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; November 26, 2015)

Veteran screenwriter Salim Khan who turned 80 on November 24 brought in his birthday with family and friends at his Bandra apartment. The Khan-daan had planned the party well in advance and among the guests were Salman's favourite director buddies, Kabir Khan, David Dhawan and Sajid Nadiadwala, the latter being accompanied by wife Warda. Also present were cricketer Shoaib Akhtar, Salman's ex-girlfriend, actress Sangeeta Bijlani and BJP spokesperson Shaina NC among others.

A guest described the veteran scriptwriter as a "rock star", made a special mention of the "amazing" food and added that the party went on till the wee hours.

Son Arbaaz was away shooting in Goa but shared a picture of himself with his dad and brothers and a sweet note wishing the father health and happiness. "My dad means everything to me and my family, we all love him and respect him immensely. He's been the pillar of strength and inspiration to us all. May allah give him a long life love you dad (sic)," wrote Arbaaz.

Daughter Arpita was also away, holidaying in London with hubby Aayush. But she thanked the bakery for delivering, "the yummiest, nicest & the most last min cakes." It had "Happy 80th birthday to the best daddy in the whole wide world! Love you" scrawled across it. The b'day boy was wearing a cool cap with Mr Right written on it. When quizzed on his Big Day, he said nonchalantly, "It was like any other day, nice in its way."

Nargis Fakhri, admitting that some will star Sangeeta Bijlani, whom she plays in the Azhar biopic
Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; July 3, 2015)

Mohammed Azharuddin has finally found his Sangeeta Bijlani, in reel life. The biopic, with Emraan Hashmi playing the cricketer, has been hunting for a suitable actress to play his second biwi for months and has now got the thumbs up from Nargis Fakhri. "I'm intrigued by the story, both excited and nervous. Azhar is a new space for me to explore, a new challenge for me," Nargis told Mirror.

Speculations have been rife for a while now about her being approached for the role when in Los Angeles. What took her so long to give the nod? "Unless I'm on board and confirmed for a project, I don't talk about it," she pointed out.

"Neither do I consider anything to be a solid manifestation. But I have to say that when I heard the narration, I was definitely interested."

Right now, she's focusing on workshops. She's not sure if any meetings have been planned by her producers with Azhar or Sangeeta. "I definitely have to do my own research. For now I have a coach who will help me with what is necessary for this particular role," she reasoned.

Having been born and brought up abroad, has she seen any of Bijli's films, like Tridev, Hathyar and Jurm? "It's funny you should ask this as I have a few films in my bag right now," she admitted. "I'll be spending the next few evenings on the couch watching a long list of films, some that she's a part of."

When prodded on whether it's a proper role or just a cameo, she laughed, "Where I come from, there is no such thing as a cameo. Every character plays an integral part and contributes to the film. I'll let you all speculate for now. You will know the answer once you watch the film."

The role got the thumbs down from other actresses like Kareena Kapoor and Jacqueline Fernandez. Did that give her second thoughts? "If I like something I say yes, if I don't I say no," she stated simply. "It makes life easy when you trust yourself with your decisions and not worry about what others are doing. I'm very pleased to be a part of this film."

Emraan Hashmi's last few films haven't done well commercially. Does that make her apprehensive? Nargis has the last laugh: "In that case, he is due for a hit and hopefully this will be it!"

Shaheen Parkar (MID-DAY; May 11, 2015)

Rumour mills have it that Nargis Fakhri is being considered to play Sangeeta Bijlani in an upcoming biopic on former Indian cricket captain Mohammed Azharuddin. The film, which will be helmed by Anthony DSouza, has Emraan Hashmi essaying the protagonist's role with Prachi Desai cast as his first wife, Naureen.

Says a source, "The producers have already had a meeting with Nargis and the modalities are being worked out. As she is slated to travel for the promotions of her Hollywood film Spy, things will be finalised only on her return."

Adds the source, "Nargis began her career with modelling just like Bijlani, so the makers feel she lends herself to the glamorous role."

Ever since the Azhar biopic was announced, there has been constant speculation about who will play his second wife. Initially, there was buzz that Kareena Kapoor would be seen as Bijli.

Later, the names of Jacqueline Fernandez and Kriti Sanon did the rounds. Sources had even suggested that producer Ekta Kapoor was keen that the 49-year-old Bijlani herself play the role. Nargis and the makers were unavailable for comment.

MID-DAY (January 26, 2015)

Buzz is that Jacqueline Fernandez has been roped in to play Sangeeta Bijlani in Anthony D’Souza’s biopic based on cricketer Mohammed Azharuddin’s life. The first choice was Kareena Kapoor, but she preferred to be part of Udta Punjab.

According to the rumours, Jacqueline has also done a look test for the film and the makers are likely to take a decision soon.

Ankur Pathak (MUMBAI MIRROR; January 16, 2015)

While the trade is buzzing with Kareena Kapoor being roped in to play Sangeeta Bijlani in the Tony D'Souza-directed biopic on Mohammed Azharuddin, Mirror has learnt that the actress is no longer associated with the project. A source close to the development informed Mirror that the actress had been in advance talks with the makers but has now decided against doing the film.

Said the source, "Kareena had intended to do the film and even had a few meetings with Ekta Kapoor (the film's producer). But the talks were at a preliminary stage. No paperwork had been done. Bebo is more keen on Abhishek Chaubey's drugs drama, Udta Punjab, which goes on floors around the same time. She has started preparatory work on it."

The source added that since the Azhar biopic goes on floors on May 1, the makers are now looking for another, younger actress who will be able to commit a good chunk of dates to the film. The name should be finalised by January end."

When contacted, Tanveer Bookwala, the Chief Creative Officer of Balaji, told Mirror, "We hadn't finalised the actress to play this role. In our construct, we are skewing a much younger actress and still bouncing around ideas internally as to who would play this feisty character." While Emraan Hashmi plays the controversial cricketer, Prachi Desai will essay the role of his first wife, Naureen.

But Bijli is yet to strike!