Salman Khan, Not the First Pick for 'Chulbul Pandey' in Dabangg, Know the First Choices

Salman Khan, popularly known as Bollywood's Bhaijaan, has undeniably left an indelible mark on the hearts of audiences through his diverse and compelling characters. Among his myriad portrayals, one role that stands out is Chulbul Pandey in the 'Dabangg' franchise. This iconic character, a quirky and fearless police officer, has become synonymous with Salman Khan's charisma. However, the intriguing aspect lies in the fact that Salman wasn't the initial choice for this role.

The Dabangg Franchise and Salman's Comedic Brilliance:

The 'Dabangg' franchise, celebrated for its blend of family drama and action, showcases Salman Khan's exceptional comedic timing. Chulbul Pandey, with his idiosyncrasies and charm, has become a beloved character, earning Salman a widespread fan following. The franchise's success owes much to Salman's ability to infuse humor into his portrayal, making the films a delightful experience for audiences.

The Unconventional Casting Journey:

The OG ,The Man, The Myth, THE BIGGEST Box-office EMPEROR "SALMAN KHAN " 👑 is Back with a Bang 💪 #Tiger3 #SalmanKhan#Tiger3FirstDayFirstShow pic.twitter.com/oSXbqcO33T

— D-E-V-I-L (@DabanggDevotee) November 5, 2023

Surprisingly, Salman Khan wasn't the director's first choice for the role of Chulbul Pandey. According to revelations by Salman's brother, Arbaaz Khan, the director of the first 'Dabangg' film, Abhinav Kashyap, initially considered actors Irrfan Khan and Randeep Hooda for the character. It was during a Mumbai Mirror interview that Arbaaz disclosed this intriguing tidbit about the casting process.

Arbaaz recounted Salman's curiosity and confusion when he learned that he wasn't the first choice for the lead role. Abhinav, it seemed, had a different vision for Salman, envisioning him more as a fly than the boisterous Chulbul Pandey. In a humorous vein, Arbaaz remarked that his role in the film was considered an extension of "Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na," a stark contrast to the larger-than-life character of Chulbul Pandey.

The Turning Point:

Despite the initial contemplation of casting Irrfan Khan or Randeep Hooda, neither actor was finalized for the role. This led to a pivotal moment in the casting process. Arbaaz Khan, sensing an opportunity, proposed Salman Khan for the role of Chulbul Pandey. His suggestion not only surprised but genuinely excited Abhinav Kashyap.

Salman Khan's Contribution to the Franchise:

The decision to cast Salman Khan as Chulbul Pandey turned out to be a masterstroke. Salman's dynamic portrayal brought a perfect blend of humor, action, and emotion to the character, resonating deeply with the audience. The 'Dabangg' franchise's success can be attributed significantly to Salman's ability to breathe life into Chulbul Pandey, making it a memorable cinematic experience for viewers.

Looking Forward: Tiger 3

As Salman Khan continues to enchant audiences with his acting prowess, his upcoming project 'Tiger 3' is eagerly awaited. Scheduled for release on Diwali, the film features a star-studded cast including Katrina Kaif, Imran Hashmi, Riddhi Dogra, and Ashutosh Rana, each contributing to what promises to be another blockbuster in Salman Khan's illustrious career.

- PTC PUNJABI