As Bollywood's "Bhaijaan," Salman Khan, celebrates his 60th birthday on December 27, 2025, it's clear that his stardom remains as vibrant as ever. With a career spanning over three decades and encompassing more than 85 Hindi films, Khan has solidified his place as one of Indian cinema's most bankable and enduring stars. From romantic dramas to action blockbusters, his versatility and charisma have captivated audiences across generations.
Khan's journey began with a supporting role in "Biwi Ho To Aisi" (1988), but it was his first leading role in "Maine Pyar Kiya" (1989) that catapulted him to stardom. The film's success earned him the Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut and marked the beginning of an illustrious career.
Here are twelve films that exemplify Salman Khan's enduring appeal and showcase his evolution as an actor:
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Maine Pyar Kiya (1989): This romantic drama, directed by Sooraj R. Barjatya, was a breakthrough role for Khan and became one of India's highest-grossing films. It earned him a Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut.
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Hum Aapke Hain Koun...!(1994): A classic family drama that became one of Bollywood's biggest hits. His collaboration with Madhuri Dixit was highly appreciated.
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Andaz Apna Apna (1994): A cult comedy, co-starring Aamir Khan, showcasing Salman's comedic timing.
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Karan Arjun (1995): An action-packed reincarnation drama with Shah Rukh Khan that solidified Salman's action hero status.
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Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya (1998): A romantic comedy opposite Kajol, which was one of the biggest commercial successes of that year.
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Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999): A love triangle directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, where Salman's performance earned him another Best Actor nomination at Filmfare.
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Tere Naam (2003): A tragic love story considered by many to be one of his finest performances, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
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Partner (2007): A successful comedy that marked a career resurgence for Khan.
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Wanted (2009): This action film marked a turning point, revitalizing his career and paving the way for his action hero persona in the following decade.
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Dabangg (2010): A blockbuster action film that spawned a successful franchise and cemented his status as a major box-office draw.
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Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015): A heartwarming story about an Indian man's journey to reunite a mute Pakistani girl with her family, earning critical acclaim and a National Film Award.
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Sultan (2016): A sports drama where Khan played a wrestler, showcasing his dedication to his craft and physical transformation.
While some of his recent films like "Radhe" (2021) and "Sikandar" (2025) have not performed as expected, his impact on Bollywood remains undeniable. He has also produced films such as "Bajrangi Bhaijaan" (2015). Beyond acting, Khan has hosted television shows like "Bigg Boss". He is also known for his philanthropic work through his Being Human Foundation.
Khan celebrated his 60th birthday with a private celebration at his Panvel farmhouse with close friends and family. As he enters this new decade, Salman Khan continues to be a force to be reckoned with in Bollywood, with fans eagerly awaiting his future projects. He is currently working on "Battle of Galwan". His journey, from a background dancer earning Rs 75 to a superstar with a net worth of Rs 2,900 crore, is truly inspirational.
