Veteran screenwriter Salim Khan, one of the most celebrated figures in Indian cinema, was admitted to Lilavati Hospital in Bandra, Mumbai, on Tuesday. While the exact medical reason for his hospitalisation has not been disclosed, the family is expected to share updates on his condition in due course.
The news of his admission quickly drew attention, particularly when his son, Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, was spotted arriving at the hospital. Salman, dressed in a black T-shirt and cap, left the premises under tight security without interacting with the media gathered outside. Other family members, including Salim’s daughter Alvira Khan Agnihotri and son-in-law, actor Aayush Sharma, were also seen visiting the hospital, underscoring the family’s concern and support during this time.
Salim Khan, who celebrated his 90th birthday in November 2025, remains a towering figure in the history of Hindi cinema. His career reached legendary status through his partnership with lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar, forming the iconic duo Salim-Javed. Together, they transformed Bollywood storytelling in the 1970s, penning films that became cultural milestones.
Their collaborations produced classics such as Zanjeer (1973), Deewar (1975), and Sholay (1975). These films not only achieved massive commercial success but also redefined mainstream cinema, introducing complex characters and narratives that resonated deeply with audiences. Sholay, in particular, became the highest-grossing Indian film of its time and continues to be hailed as one of the greatest films ever made.
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Salim Khan’s contribution to the partnership was primarily in developing stories and characters, while Akhtar focused on dialogues and screenplay writing. Together, they pioneered the masala film format and popularised the Dacoit Western genre. Most significantly, they created the “angry young man” archetype, embodied by Amitabh Bachchan, which became a defining feature of Bollywood in that era.
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Beyond their blockbuster successes, Salim-Javed elevated the status of screenwriters in Indian cinema, becoming among the first to achieve star recognition in their own right. Their influence continues to shape generations of filmmakers and writers, with their works studied and celebrated for their narrative depth and cultural impact.
As the industry and fans await further updates on Salim Khan’s health, his legacy as a master storyteller and one of Bollywood’s most influential writers remains firmly intact.
Credit: Oneindia