May 5, 2025: Amid ongoing discussions about the Bollywood industry’s selective support, actor Riteish Deshmukh has spoken up in support of Salman Khan, calling him one of the most generous and proactive individuals in the industry when it comes to promoting others’ work.
While promoting his upcoming film Raid 2, Riteish was asked about Salman’s recent viral comments during Sikandar promotions, where the superstar expressed that even he needs support, though many assume otherwise. In response, Riteish shared personal anecdotes reflecting Salman’s unwavering support for him over the years.
“Maybe he was right saying that,” Riteish told entertainment journalist Nayandeep Rakshit. “He always calls me and says, ‘Send me your trailer right now.’ He’ll make sure he wants to do it for you. That’s the kind of relationship person he is. It is beyond him to ask.”
Riteish went on to highlight how Salman Khan has supported him since his debut Marathi film Lai Bhaari, and even during the launch of his venture Imagine Meats, where Shah Rukh Khan also showed up to lend his support. He added that he’s never personally felt a lack of backing from the industry, citing friends like Abhishek Bachchan as always being just a phone call away.
“People have gone out of their way to be with me… These are relationships that are there, and I’ve never had that feeling [of being unsupported],” he added.
Salman’s original comment—“Unko lagta hoga ki zaroorat nahi padti mujhe… but sabko zaroorat padti hai”—has sparked a broader conversation about how even the most successful stars sometimes feel isolated when it comes to receiving public support from their peers.
As both Riteish and Salman continue their promotional efforts, this dialogue adds a layer of authenticity to the often-glamorous world of Bollywood, reminding fans that behind the spotlight are real people who value connection, recognition, and support.