Salman Khan Wants To Work With Ananya, Janhvi But Blames Media For 'Ruining It With Age Gap Talk’

When asked about the ongoing discourse regarding his co-star’s age, Salman Khan explained that he consciously chooses to work with younger talent to help them gain prominence.

Salman Khan is gearing up for the release of his much-anticipated action film ‘Sikandar’, which pairs him opposite Rashmika Mandanna for the first time.

Source : Manav Manglani

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan is gearing up for the release of his much-anticipated action film ‘Sikandar’, which pairs him opposite Rashmika Mandanna for the first time. While fans are excited to see the fresh pairing, discussions around their 31-year age gap have sparked debate. Addressing the controversy during a promotional event, Salman expressed his frustration over how such conversations impact young actresses' opportunities in the industry. 

Salman Khan on working with younger actresses 

When asked about the ongoing discourse regarding his co-star’s age, Salman explained that he consciously chooses to work with younger talent to help them gain prominence. "Now, people talk about the heroine of Sikandar, Rashmika. I was thinking that I will work with these new girls, and they will come up and become big stars. They will get bigger and better films. But you people ruined it for them with all the age gap talk," he stated. 

The Tiger 3 actor further shared that the scrutiny has made him rethink future collaborations. "Now, if I want to work with Ananya (Panday) or Janhvi (Kapoor), I will have to think 10 times," he remarked. However, when the media responded by telling him not to overthink, Salman smiled and added, "I will think 10 times, but I'll still do it." 

Salman on working with Rashmika

At Sikandar’s trailer launch, Salman, 59, addressed concerns about working opposite 28-year-old Rashmika Mandanna. Dismissing the criticism, he quipped, “People say there is a 31-year age gap between me and the heroine. When the heroine and her father don’t have a problem, then why do you have a problem?” 

In a lighthearted moment, he even joked that if Rashmika were to have a daughter in the future, he would be open to working with her too. 

Directed by AR Murugadoss, 'Sikandar' features an ensemble cast, including Kajal Aggarwal, Sathyaraj, and Sharman Joshi. The film is slated for a grand theatrical release on May 30, coinciding with the Eid festivities.