TheInterviewTimes.com | February 18, 2026 |12:01 PM IST | Mumbai
Salim Khan health update: Salman Khan’s father is on ventilator after surgery at Lilavati Hospital. Read our detailed profile on the veteran writer’s legacy.
Veteran screenwriter and former film actor Salim Khan, one of the most influential figures in Hindi cinema, remains a towering personality in Bollywood history. Best known as one half of the legendary screenwriting duo Salim-Javed, he transformed mainstream Indian films in the 1970s and helped define the “angry young man” era. He is also widely recognized as the father of Bollywood superstar Salman Khan.
Even at 90, Salim Khan’s legacy continues to shape conversations around storytelling, stardom, and cinematic evolution in India.
From Actor to Iconic Screenwriter
Born on November 24, 1935, in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Salim Khan began his career in the film industry as an actor in the early 1960s. However, he soon realized his true strength lay in storytelling. His career took a decisive turn when he partnered with Javed Akhtar, forming the iconic screenwriting duo Salim-Javed.
Together, they revolutionized Hindi cinema with strong narratives, sharp dialogues, and morally complex heroes. At a time when romantic dramas dominated Bollywood, Salim-Javed introduced action-packed stories with powerful social themes.
Their breakthrough came with Zanjeer in 1973, which redefined the career of Amitabh Bachchan and gave birth to the “angry young man” persona. The film’s success reshaped the direction of commercial cinema.
Blockbusters That Defined an Era
Salim Khan’s writing credits include several all-time classics:
- Sholay (1975)
- Deewaar (1975)
- Don (1978)
- Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973)
These films not only became box office hits but also cultural landmarks. Dialogues from Sholay and Deewaar are still quoted decades later. Industry experts often credit Salim Khan’s storytelling instincts for bringing realism, emotional intensity, and social conflict into mainstream films.
The Salim-Javed partnership eventually ended in 1982, but their body of work remains unmatched in terms of influence and impact.
A Father, Mentor and Industry Elder
While Salim Khan built his own legacy, he is also known as the father of actor Salman Khan, one of Bollywood’s biggest commercial stars. Salman made his debut in 1988 and rose to superstardom in the 1990s and 2000s.
In several interviews, Salman Khan has credited his father for guiding him through both professional and personal challenges. Salim Khan is often seen as a strong patriarch of the Khan family, which includes actors Arbaaz Khan and Sohail Khan as well.
Despite his towering stature, Salim Khan has largely stayed away from public limelight in recent years. However, he continues to command immense respect within the film fraternity for his intellect, discipline, and contribution to cinema.
Lasting Influence on Bollywood
Film historians describe Salim Khan as one of the pioneers who elevated screenwriters to celebrity status in India. During the 1970s, Salim-Javed became the first writers to demand and receive prominent credit and substantial remuneration, changing the economics of the industry.
His storytelling introduced themes of social injustice, corruption, and class conflict, resonating deeply with audiences during a turbulent period in India’s political and economic history.
Today, as Bollywood evolves with digital platforms and global audiences, Salim Khan’s work is often cited as a benchmark for strong character-driven narratives.
Legacy Beyond Fame
Beyond films and family fame, Salim Khan represents a generation of filmmakers who shaped modern Hindi cinema from behind the scenes. His journey from struggling actor to legendary screenwriter underscores the power of perseverance and creative vision.
As the father of Salman Khan and the architect of some of Bollywood’s greatest hits, Salim Khan’s story is not merely about stardom. It is about storytelling, influence, and a legacy that continues to inspire Indian cinema.
In the annals of Hindi film history, Salim Khan’s name remains etched as a master craftsman whose words helped define an era.
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