At Sikandar’s trailer launch, Salman Khan addressed age-gap criticism with co-star Rashmika Mandanna, defended their pairing, and praised her commitment, calling her a reflection of his younger self.
March 24, 2025: Salman Khan Addresses Age-Gap Criticism With Rashmika Mandanna in Sikandar: “Even If She Has a Daughter, I’ll Work With Her”
The trailer of Sikandar, Salman Khan’s much-awaited action entertainer directed by AR Murugadoss, was launched with much fanfare in Mumbai on Sunday. While the trailer received a roaring reception, questions about the 31-year age gap between 59-year-old Salman and his co-star, 28-year-old Rashmika Mandanna, were quick to surface.
But Salman had a sharp, tongue-in-cheek reply ready. “Jab heroine ko problem nahi ho rahi toh aapko kyu ho rahi hai?” he said at the press event. “Inki shaadi hogi, bacchi hogi, toh unke saath bhi kaam karenge. Mummy ka permission toh mil hi jaayega.” (When the heroine has no problem, why do you? If she has a daughter someday, I’ll work with her too. Her mother will definitely give permission.)
Also Read: Salman Khan Silences Ageing Rumours, Flaunts Biceps and Charms Fans With Youthful Look
‘She Reminds Me of a Younger Me’: Salman Praises Rashmika
Beyond the witty remark, Salman had nothing but praise for Rashmika’s professionalism. “She was juggling Pushpa 2 and Sikandar at the same time. She would shoot Pushpa till 7 pm, arrive on our set at 9 pm, shoot all night till 6:30 am, and then head back. Even after a leg injury, she didn’t cancel a single shoot day. That level of commitment reminded me of myself when I was younger,” he shared.
Rashmika, who gained national fame with Pushpa: The Rise, plays the female lead opposite Salman in Sikandar, an action-packed entertainer loaded with emotion and high-octane stunts.
Star-Studded Ensemble and High Expectations
Joining Salman and Rashmika in the ensemble are Kajal Aggarwal, Sathyaraj, Suniel Shetty, Sharman Joshi, and Prateik Babbar. The film is directed by AR Murugadoss, known for blockbusters like Ghajini and Holiday, and is produced by Sajid Nadiadwala.
Tiger 3 may have underperformed by Salman’s standards, but expectations are sky-high for Sikandar, especially with its Eid 2025 release slated for March 30. Fans are hoping it revives the superstar’s golden box office run.
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