# When Salman Khan Turned Down *Baazigar*: A Decision That Changed Bollywood Forever Imagine turning down a role that skyrocketed a rival to superstardom—**Salman Khan did just that with *Baazigar*, paving the way for Shah Rukh Khan's iconic anti-hero debut.**[1][2] In the early '90s, directors Abbas-Mustan approached Salman with the lead role of Vicky Malhotra in *Baazigar*, a thriller blending romance and revenge that promised to be a game-changer.[1] But Salman, along with his father Salim Khan, had reservations. The character was **overwhelmingly negative**—a vengeful anti-hero whose actions they feared could mislead fans, especially the youth.[1][2] Salman suggested adding a mother figure to soften the portrayal and add emotional depth, making the antagonist more relatable.[1] The directors laughed it off as cliché and refused changes, leading Salman to walk away firmly.[1] This principled stand aligned with Salman's long-held philosophy: **"I won't do roles that set the wrong example."**[2] He echoed this in interviews, explaining his role choices prioritize positive influence. For instance, he warned audiences not to emulate the obsessive Radhe from *Tere Naam*, urging them to learn from mistakes instead.[2] Even after *Baazigar*'s massive success—where Shah Rukh Khan delivered a career-defining performance—the directors later called Salman to admit his mother idea was spot-on, incorporating it into the final film.[1] Salman had no regrets; in a 2007 interview, he expressed happiness that the role boosted SRK's fame.[4] *Baazigar* wasn't just any film—it established SRK as the **quintessential anti-hero of the 1990s**, captivating audiences with its twists and thrills.[1] Interestingly, the role was first offered to Anil Kapoor, who also passed, before landing with SRK.[3] Salman's rejection indirectly shaped Bollywood history, highlighting his commitment to clean-hearted characters over risky ones.[2][5]
*Iconic anti-hero moment from Bollywood's thrilling era (Unsplash free stock image)*
Citations
1.https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/role-rewind-salman-khan-rejected-baazigar-before-shah-rukh-khan-took-it-up-heres-why-the-dabangg-actor-didnt-do-it/articleshow/113941487.cms
2.https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/when-salman-khan-revealed-why-he-said-no-to-baazigar-which-later-starred-shah-rukh-khan-saying-i-wont-do-roles-that-set-the-wrong-example/articleshow/126350855.cms
3.https://www.koimoi.com/bollywood-news/before-shah-rukh-khan-salman-khan-heres-why-they-rejected-it/
4.https://www.siasat.com/the-role-salman-declined-that-launched-shah-rukhs-stardom-3108436/
5.https://news24online.com/entertainment/when-salman-khan-claimed-rejecting-srks-baazigar-led-to-the-creation-of-mannat/203851/
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