Bollywood’s heartthrob Salman Khan, fondly known as Bhaijaan, is ringing in his 67th birthday, and warm wishes are pouring in from all corners, especially from his co-stars who have shared the silver screen with him. Among these well-wishers is actor Mahesh Thakur, who is endeared by fans for his role as Salman’s brother-in-law, Anand Babu, in the family drama ‘Hum Saath Saath Hain’. As the confetti settles and the birthday fervor amps up, Mahesh Thakur reveals the depth of his respect and affection for Salman in a heartfelt tribute to the beloved actor.
Sooraj Barjatya, a name synonymous with family sagas in Indian cinema, has created numerous films that resonate deeply with family values and morals. Among his directorial gems is ‘Hum Saath Saath Hain’, a movie that, decades post its release, continues to be cherished by a multigenerational audience. In this film, Salman Khan personified humility and grace as he adeptly portrayed the role of the ideal son and a paragon of brotherly love. His portrayal shattered the conventional Bollywood hero mold — it wasn’t about the grandeur of staged fights or action sequences; rather, it was his captivating smile that won over hearts instantly.
Salman Khan’s nuanced performance birthed ‘Prem’, an archetype that became the aspiration of countless hearts across the nation. Though his on-screen presence was unassuming in ‘Hum Saath Saath Hain’, off-screen, Salman’s genuine nature and kind-heartedness never went unnoticed by those who knew him closely.
Reflecting on the shared past, Mahesh Thakur, in an exclusive exchange, unveils a slice of nostalgia as he recounts the early days of knowing Salman Khan before his meteoric rise as a superstar. “First of all, Bhai Khan, Salman Khan is a gem of a person, and he has always been the same even before he was a big star,” reminisces Mahesh. Hailing from the same schools and neighborhoods of Bandstand and Mount Mary, Thakur highlights the fact that fame never altered Salman Khan’s core — a genuine, approachable and a quintessential ‘Bandra boy’.
On this momentous occasion, Thakur didn’t pass up the opportunity to extend his earnest birthday wishes, expressing a sincere hope for Salman’s good health, continued success, and divine blessings.
Parallel to the life stories they have shared on and off-screen, both actors are immersed in their respective projects. Thakur is currently involved in ‘Aagan Apno ka’, a television series portraying the enduring bond between a single father and his three daughters, reflecting a narrative that exudes familial warmth much like ‘Hum Saath Saath Hain’. Salman, on the other hand, has recently appeared in ‘Tiger 3’, sharing screen space with Katrina Kaif, and proving yet again why he continues to be one of the most bankable stars in the industry.
As the Bhaijaan of Bollywood ushers in another year, it’s apparent that the roles he chooses to embody and the real-life bonds he fosters with his colleagues are grounded in affection and respect. Salman’s legacy transcends the screen; it’s etched in the camaraderie he shares with those who know him dearly — a legacy that Mahesh Thakur’s birthday message encapsulates perfectly. As the cake is cut and the lights dim on another birthday celebration, Salman Khan’s impact as an actor and a person remains a beacon for many. Happy 67th, Salman Khan; here’s to many more years of inspiring audiences and touching lives.
