Salman Khan Took Bold Step by Playing HIV Patient in ‘Phir Milenge’ for Free, Says Producer

The producer of the film Phir Milenge recently revealed that Salman Khan agreed to portray an HIV-positive character when many in Bollywood turned down the role. Speaking about the film, the producer shared that most actors in the industry were hesitant to take on the challenging role due to the social stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS at the time.

However, Salman stepped in without a second thought and decided to play the role without charging any fee. The producer expressed gratitude for Salman’s commitment, stating, “Salman agreed to do the role when the entire Bollywood said no. He did it for free because he believed in the film’s message.”

Shailendra said, “Salman Khan charged Re 1 for the movie and in the climax he actually dies. AIDS ke topic pe awareness create karna pure Hindustan ki population ke liye, particularly youth ke liye (We had to create awareness on the topic of AIDS for the whole India, particularly the youth)…But I ultimately realised that cinema is a mirror of society and is also the ultimate heartbeat of every Indian. Us waqt aur ab bhi sabse bada youth icon Bollywood me – Salman Khan (Even then and today Salman Khan is the biggest youth icon of Bollywood). But imagine convincing a Salman Khan to do a movie revolving around the cause of AIDS when he is actually the Rambo, Terminator and the Superman of India.” He also remarked, “Lead actor of the film gets HIV and then dies in the climax. That is the plotline for the lead actor. The whole industry of Bollywood said no. That is the day I called Salman Khan. Salman dies in the climax of HIV, obviously his fans were not happy. But the message got across the nation. Because of being such an intense film, it came not only on cinema but satellite cable, everywhere. So the propaganda happened.”

Phir Milenge was released in 2004 and addressed the issue of HIV/AIDS, highlighting the social prejudices and challenges faced by those living with the virus. Salman Khan’s decision to accept the role, despite the stigma associated with it, was a significant move in Bollywood, breaking barriers and spreading awareness.