In the realm of Bollywood’s larger-than-life narratives, stories of camaraderie and unexpected adventures often emerge, leaving fans and audiences amused and intrigued. One such tale comes from the seasoned actor, Aasif Sheikh, who offers a delightful peek into the life of superstar Salman Khan and a memorable driving escapade that has since become a part of Bollywood folklore.
Aasif Sheikh, known for his charming portrayal of Vibhuti Narayan Mishra on the widely popular show ‘Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai,’ shared this entertaining anecdote during an interview with Lallantop, reminiscing about an incident that took place during the years following the 1998 film Bandhan, in which he starred alongside Salman Khan. The incident involved a young Salman Khan, brimming with confidence and a sense of invincibility that often accompanies stardom, and an Esteem car.
Recollecting the youthful exuberance and adventures they shared, Aasif revealed how Salman Khan had beckoned him to join a spontaneous car ride while they were wrapping up a shoot. “We were young then,” recalled Aasif, noting how Salman, equipped with nothing but charm and an Esteem, convinced him to hop in for a whirlwind drive.
The streets, however, became less of a playground and more of an arena for misadventure when Salman playfully maneuvered his vehicle onto the footpath. This impromptu detour was met with wide eyes and a ticking sense of rebellion. “Salman started driving everywhere, on the footpath, on the road,” Aasif narrated, detailing his growing concern, “I said, ‘Salman, pakde jayenge (we will get caught).’ But in true Salman fashion, he brushed it off saying, ‘Pakde jayenge toh yaar Salman Khan hain ghabrao mat. (Even if we get caught, don’t worry, Salman Khan is with you).”
However, the duo’s thrill-seeking joyride was short-lived as soon after, they were flagged down by a traffic police officer. The story took an unexpected turn when, to the surprise of both actors, the officer failed to recognize Salman. Reflecting on the moment, Aasif quipped about how Salman, unfazed, suggested an amusing solution involving the removal of his shirt, a move that had become emblematic of his on-screen persona.
. “He rolled down the window,” Aasif continued, “and the traffic police actually did not recognize him. Salman was like ‘Isne toh pehchana nahi. Maine kaha shirt utaar shayad pehchan le. (He said he didn’t recognise me. I said, ‘Take off your shirt, he might recognise you then).”
This incident not only highlights the playful bond between Aasif and Salman but also offers a glimpse into the life of a superstar whose on-screen heroics were often mirrored by off-screen antics. It encapsulates the essence of Salman Khan during those years—a mix of bravado, humor, and an unshakeable belief in his star power.
While the incident ended without any further twists or significant repercussions, it stands as a testament to the camaraderie these actors shared, a reminder of simpler times, and the innate charm that Salman Khan exudes both on and off screen.
As Aasif Sheikh continues to entertain audiences with his wit and humor on ‘Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai,’ his anecdote serves as an endearing reminder of the colorful life behind the scenes in Bollywood. Following Angoori Tiwari’s naivety and Vibhuti’s relentless antics, the show paints a comedy of errors much like the real-life exploits of its actors.
Meanwhile, Salman Khan strides forward in the industry, busy with ongoing shoots, including his latest venture ‘Sikandar’ and his return as the host of the reality show ‘Bigg Boss 18.’ Despite the passage of years since that footpath incident, the memories remain vivid, reaffirming Salman Khan’s status as a personality whose tales continue to captivate and astonish audiences worldwide.
In this richly woven tapestry of Bollywood friendships and misadventures, Aasif Sheikh’s story of Salman Khan’s footpath detour remains a delightful tale—one that captures the essence of Bollywood’s larger-than-life spirit and its penchant for the unexpected.
