Bollywood is no stranger to unconventional pairings, but Salman Khan‘s latest film, Sikandar, has sparked a heated conversation around its lead duo. The 59-year-old megastar stars opposite 28-year-old Rashmika Mandanna, creating a whopping 31-year age gap. Naturally, this casting choice has raised eyebrows and fueled debates. But trust Salman to handle it with his trademark wit and confidence!
The Age Gap Debate: Salman’s Bold Response
At the trailer launch of Sikandar, Salman Khan addressed the elephant in the room with a mix of humor and defiance. When asked about the criticism surrounding the age difference, he quipped, “If the heroine doesn’t have a problem, why do you?” He even took it a step further, joking that he’d work with Rashmika’s daughter someday if the opportunity arose. “Mummy ka permission toh mil hi jayega,” he added cheekily
This response not only silenced critics but also showcased Salman’s unapologetic attitude toward his career choices. Rashmika, on her part, seemed unfazed by the controversy and was seen laughing at Salman’s remarks during the event
Why Is Everyone Talking About Sikandar?
Beyond the age-gap chatter, Sikandar is generating buzz for all the right reasons. Directed by AR Murugadoss, known for hits like Ghajini and Thuppakki, this action-packed drama promises to be a cinematic spectacle. The film follows Salman Khan’s character, Sanjay Rajkot (aka Sikandar), as he transforms from a carefree individual to a selfless hero fighting corruption and injustice
The movie is set to release on March 30, 2025, just in time for Eid festivities—a strategic move that aligns with Salman’s tradition of blockbuster Eid releases
The Stellar Cast of Sikandar
Salman Khan leads an ensemble cast that includes:
- Rashmika Mandanna: Playing Salman’s love interest.
- Kajal Aggarwal: Adding star power to the lineup.
- Sathyaraj: Known for his commanding screen presence.
- Sharman Joshi: Bringing versatility to the mix.
- Prateik Babbar: Cast in a pivotal role.
With Sajid Nadiadwala producing and AR Murugadoss at the helm, expectations are sky-high for this film.
Salman’s Praise for Rashmika
Despite their age difference, Salman had nothing but admiration for Rashmika’s dedication. He revealed how she juggled shooting for Pushpa 2 during the day and Sikandar at night—sometimes working until dawn without missing a beat. “She reminds me of my younger self,” Salman remarked, highlighting her perseverance even after sustaining an injury on set.
Why Age Gaps in Bollywood Are No Big Deal
While some critics argue that such pairings perpetuate unrealistic standards in Bollywood, they are hardly new. From Shah Rukh Khan romancing Deepika Padukone in Chennai Express to Akshay Kumar pairing up with younger actresses in recent films, age gaps have long been part of Bollywood’s storytelling formula.
Salman’s take on this? If both actors are comfortable and deliver convincing performances, why should it matter? His confidence in addressing this issue reflects his understanding of stardom and audience dynamics.
Here’s why Sikandar is poised to be a game-changer:
- Mass Appeal: With high-octane action sequences and Salman’s larger-than-life persona, the film caters to his loyal fanbase.
- Social Message: The story revolves around fighting corruption and uplifting the underprivileged—a theme that resonates universally
- Festive Release: Releasing during Eid ensures maximum footfall at theatres.
Final Thoughts
Love him or hate him, you can’t ignore Salman Khan. His pairing with Rashmika Mandanna in Sikandar may have sparked debates, but it’s also added intrigue to an already highly anticipated film. Whether you’re team “age is just a number” or not, one thing’s certain—Sikandar is set to dominate headlines and box office charts alike.
So mark your calendars for March 30th! Whether you’re watching it for Salman’s charisma or Rashmika’s charm (or just to see what all the fuss is about), Sikandar promises to be an unforgettable ride.
