Salman Khan: The Sultan of Bollywood | Book Review
Review of Mohar Basu's Book - Salman Khan: The Sultan of Bollywood
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HE BREAKS
RULES, HEARTS AND RECORDS
SALMAN KHAN:
THE MAN, THE MYTH, THE MEGASTAR
As Prem, the nation's first love; as Radhe, the rebel with a cause; as Tiger, the action king who redefined machismo for a new India, Salman Khan is the only Bollywood superstar who has ruled romance, comedy and action in Hindi films with equal ease and style. While critics share the perfect love-hate relationship with him, for his fans--who flock to theatres with every new release, their loyalty unquestionable, their excitement unbridled--nothing can match the anticipation of a new film starring Salman Khan.
With his
signature swagger, magnetic charm and larger-than-life persona, everyone is
fascinated with the actor. Packed with fan interviews, never-before-seen photos
and insights from long-time collaborators of the star, Salman Khan: The
Sultan of Bollywood is an ode to the actor who has made an impact on
pop culture like no other.
Through
controversies and comebacks, blockbusters and hard-learnt lessons of life,
Salman has remained cinema's wild heart and its last true mystery--perhaps the
only superstar of his kind that India will ever see.
Book #6 of 2026
Non-Fiction #5
Salman
Khan: The Sultan of Bollywood by Mohar Basu explores the journey of one of Indian cinema’s
biggest stars. The book traces Salman Khan’s life from his childhood and early
struggles to his rise as a mass hero and cultural icon.
His big
break came with Maine Pyar Kiya, where he played Prem, which changed
everything for him. Over the years, it became more than a character; it became
an emotion for audiences. The book follows this journey and explains how Salman
Khan became the “hero of the masses.”
The author
does not shy away from controversies. Salman’s relationships, his interactions
with the media, the poaching case, and the hit-and-run case are all discussed.
Yet, the book clearly shows that his on-screen image and fan following were
never truly affected. His films continued to receive love, and his fan base
remained strong.
The book
also talks in detail about Salman Khan’s philanthropy. It highlights how he
supports newcomers, helps people financially, donates blood plasma, and
contributes quietly but generously. His kindness off-screen contrasts with his
tough on-screen image.
One thing I
liked was the inclusion of fan interviews, stories from film sets, and insights
from co-stars, journalists, producers, theatre owners, and technicians. These
voices help us see a softer, more sensitive side of Salman Khan, beyond the
macho roles he often plays.
The book is
enriched with rare photographs and behind-the-scenes details. These
visuals and anecdotes allow readers to see him as someone beyond an actor.
The book
also captures his deep bond with his family. It talks about how the family
stood together during difficult times, his love and respect for his father, and
the equal affection he shows toward both his mother and Helen. These personal
moments add emotional depth to his story.
The book
highlights different phases of his career, from romantic roles to action
franchises and meaningful films. It also notes his comfort in sharing screen
space with other stars and his willingness to take on socially conscious roles.
The writing
style is simple and engaging. It is not a dry list of films and dates. Instead,
it reads like a story filled with memories, anecdotes, and reflections.
While the
book leans more toward admiration than sharp criticism, it still presents a
balanced picture. It may not offer shocking revelations, but it gives context
and insight into why Salman Khan continues to enjoy unmatched loyalty from his
fans.
Overall,
this book is an engaging and thoughtful portrait of a star who has shaped
Bollywood for decades. It explains not just why Salman Khan became a star,
but how he continues to remain one.
If you are a Salman Khan fan, a Bollywood lover, or someone curious about how stardom works in Indian cinema, this book is definitely worth reading.
MOHAR BASU is the chief correspondent (entertainment) at Mid-day. She has previously worked as a film critic at Koimoi.com, and later reviewed movies for The Times of India. Her work focuses on the dynamics of the Hindi film industry. Her stories include coverage of censorship in movies and OTT platforms, a news series on the 2016 ban of Pakistani actors in India and their eventual return with the rebirth of Zindagi in 2020, and in-depth reporting on the systemic culture of sexual harassment in Bollywood, among others. Basu's reporting has contributed to industry changes, such as the creation of safe spaces at casting agencies and talent management companies.
In 2024, she was recognized by the Indian Achiever's Club in their '40 under 40' list for her piece on the toxic nature of the Indian paparazzi and the rising tide of vitriol on social media. She has previously authored Shah Rukh Khan, published by HarperCollins India in 2024.
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Until the next post...
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