Top 15 Blockbuster Movies of Salman Khan of All Time

Salman Khan, the quintessential ‘Bhai’ of Bollywood, needs no introduction in the world of Indian cinema. With a career spanning over three decades, Salman Khan has not only earned the adoration of millions of fans but has also cemented his status as one of the most bankable and iconic actors in the industry. Known for his rugged charm, impeccable style, and versatility as an actor, Salman Khan has delivered numerous blockbuster hits over the years.

In this article, we will delve into the cinematic journey of this beloved superstar and explore the top 15 blockbuster movies of Salman Khan of all time that have left an indelible mark on the Indian film industry. From his debut in “Maine Pyar Kiya” to the action-packed “Wanted” and heartwarming “Bajrangi Bhaijaan,” Salman Khan’s filmography is a testament to his enduring appeal and the love he receives from his fans. Let’s embark on a cinematic journey through the top 15 movies that have made Salman Khan an indomitable force in Bollywood.

Top 15 Blockbuster Movies of Salman Khan of All Time

1. Maine Pyar Kiya (1989):

“Maine Pyar Kiya,” released in 1989, holds a special place in the history of Bollywood cinema as it marked the debut of Salman Khan as a leading actor. Directed by Sooraj R. Barjatya and produced by Rajshri Productions, this film not only introduced a new face to the industry but also heralded the arrival of a charismatic and talented actor who would go on to become one of Bollywood’s most beloved stars.

The film’s plot revolves around the story of Prem (played by Salman Khan) and Suman (played by Bhagyashree), two young people from different social backgrounds who fall in love during a summer vacation. However, their love faces opposition from Suman’s family, leading to a series of challenges that test the strength of their relationship.

“Maine Pyar Kiya” was a groundbreaking film for several reasons:

• Salman Khan’s Debut: The film introduced Salman Khan as a leading man, and his portrayal of Prem made an immediate impact. His boyish charm, infectious smile, and effortless acting won the hearts of audiences, and he quickly became a sensation.
• Cinematic Milestones: The movie introduced several iconic moments and songs that are still cherished by fans today. Songs like “Dil Deewana,” “Kabootar Ja Ja Ja,” and “Aate Jaate Hanste Gaate” became chartbusters.
• Sooraj R. Barjatya’s Direction: Sooraj R. Barjatya, in his directorial debut, crafted a story that celebrated love and family values, a theme that would become synonymous with his subsequent films. His storytelling style resonated with Indian audiences, and he continued to collaborate successfully with Salman Khan in future projects.
• Commercial Success: “Maine Pyar Kiya” was a massive box office hit and played a pivotal role in establishing Salman Khan as a leading actor. Its success also contributed to the revival of the family drama genre in Bollywood.

The film’s success catapulted Salman Khan into stardom, and he went on to become one of the most prominent actors in the Indian film industry. “Maine Pyar Kiya” remains a timeless classic, a testament to the enduring appeal of love stories in Indian cinema, and a crucial milestone in the career of Salman Khan. It continues to be cherished by fans and serves as a reminder of the actor’s journey from a newcomer to a Bollywood icon.

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2. Karan Arjun (1995):

“Karan Arjun,” released in 1995, is a Bollywood classic that brought together two of the industry’s biggest stars, Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan, in a tale of reincarnation, revenge, and brotherhood. Directed by Rakesh Roshan, the film is known for its powerful storyline, memorable dialogues, and unforgettable performances.

Plot: The story of “Karan Arjun” revolves around the characters of Karan Singh (Salman Khan) and Arjun Singh (Shah Rukh Khan), two brothers who are brutally murdered by their enemies when they try to unite their separated mother, Durga (Rakhee Gulzar), and avenge their father’s death. However, their souls are reborn in different families, and the film explores their journey as they gradually regain their memories from their past life and set out to fulfill their mission of reuniting with their mother and avenging their deaths.

Key Highlights:

• Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan: “Karan Arjun” marked the first collaboration between two of the biggest stars in Bollywood, Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan. Their on-screen chemistry and camaraderie were a major highlight of the film, and their performances were widely appreciated.
• Emotional Drama: The film is a perfect blend of action, drama, and emotion. It explores themes of reincarnation and the unbreakable bond between a mother and her sons. The emotional scenes and family dynamics resonated with audiences.
• Iconic Dialogues: “Mere Karan Arjun aayenge” (My Karan and Arjun will come) became a famous catchphrase from the film. The movie is also remembered for its powerful dialogues and dramatic confrontations.
• Music: The film’s soundtrack, composed by Rajesh Roshan, was a massive hit. Songs like “Jaati Hoon Main,” “Yeh Bandhan Toh,” and “Bhangra Paale” are still popular and are often played at weddings and celebrations.
• Reincarnation Theme: “Karan Arjun” was one of the early Bollywood films to explore the concept of reincarnation in such a prominent manner. This unique theme added depth to the storyline and set it apart from conventional Bollywood dramas.

“Karan Arjun” was not only a commercial success but also a cultural phenomenon. It remains a beloved film for its entertaining mix of action, drama, and the dynamic pairing of Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan. The film’s message of brotherhood, revenge, and justice continues to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless classic in the history of Indian cinema.

3. Dil To Pagal Hai (1997):

“Dil To Pagal Hai,” released in 1997, is a romantic musical drama directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Yash Chopra. The film is celebrated for its soulful music, enchanting dance sequences, and a stellar cast that includes Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit, and, of course, Salman Khan.

Plot: The movie revolves around the world of dance, love, and destiny. Rahul (Shah Rukh Khan) is a successful director of a dance troupe in Mumbai. Nisha (Karisma Kapoor) is a talented dancer who secretly loves Rahul. However, things take an unexpected turn when Rahul meets Pooja (Madhuri Dixit), a beautiful and cheerful dancer who becomes the muse for his next production. As the dance rehearsals progress, love blossoms between Rahul and Pooja, leaving Nisha heartbroken. The film explores themes of love, friendship, and the quest to find one’s soulmate.

Key Highlights:

• Salman Khan’s Cameo: Salman Khan makes a memorable cameo appearance in “Dil To Pagal Hai.” He plays Raj, a close friend of Rahul’s character. His charismatic presence adds depth to the story and leads to some touching moments in the film.
• Chemistry Between the Leads: The film beautifully captures the on-screen chemistry between Shah Rukh Khan and Madhuri Dixit. Their passionate and nuanced performances as Rahul and Pooja drew the audience into the world of love and dance.
• Iconic Dance Sequences: “Dil To Pagal Hai” is known for its mesmerizing dance sequences choreographed by Shiamak Davar. Songs like “Dholna” and “Le Gayi” became instant hits, and the film won accolades for its outstanding choreography.
• Yash Chopra’s Direction: Yash Chopra, known for his expertise in crafting romantic films, delivered a visually stunning and emotionally engaging movie. His direction brought out the best in the cast and made the film a memorable experience.
• Musical Brilliance: The soundtrack of the film, composed by Uttam Singh with lyrics by Anand Bakshi, is a masterpiece. Songs like “Dil To Pagal Hai,” “Bholi Si Surat,” and “Are Re Are” are timeless classics that continue to be cherished by audiences.

“Dil To Pagal Hai” was not only a commercial success but also received critical acclaim. It won several awards, including multiple Filmfare Awards. The film’s portrayal of love, the pursuit of dreams, and the power of destiny struck a chord with audiences, making it a beloved romantic classic in Bollywood’s rich cinematic history. Salman Khan’s presence, albeit in a cameo role, added a special charm to the movie and remains etched in the memories of fans of the film.

4. Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998):

A cameo appearance by Salman Khan in this Karan Johar directorial stole hearts. His role as Aman Mathur is still remembered fondly by fans.

5. Tere Naam (2003):

“Tere Naam,” released in 2003, is a Bollywood romantic drama directed by Satish Kaushik and starring Salman Khan and Bhumika Chawla in the lead roles. This film is remembered for its powerful and emotional storyline, remarkable performances, and the transformation of Salman Khan’s character, which showcased his acting versatility.

Plot: The film revolves around the life of Radhe Mohan (Salman Khan), a troubled young man with a reputation for being aggressive and volatile. Radhe falls in love with Nirjara (Bhumika Chawla), a simple and compassionate girl. However, their love story faces numerous obstacles, including family opposition and societal norms. Radhe’s life takes a tragic turn, and he ends up in a mental asylum. The film explores themes of love, redemption, and the impact of societal pressures on individuals.

Key Highlights:

• Salman Khan’s Transformation: Salman Khan’s portrayal of Radhe Mohan was a significant departure from his usual on-screen persona. He underwent a complete transformation for the role, shaving his head and immersing himself in the character. His intense performance garnered critical acclaim and showcased his acting depth.
• Emotional Depth: “Tere Naam” is known for its emotional depth and powerful storytelling. The film delves into the complexities of love and mental health, addressing the stigma associated with mental illness in Indian society.
• Music: The film’s soundtrack, composed by Himesh Reshammiya, was a massive hit. Songs like “Tere Naam,” “Lagan Lagi,” and “O Jaana” became chartbusters and are still popular among music enthusiasts.
• Impactful Dialogues: The film features memorable dialogues that resonate with the audience, contributing to its emotional impact.
• Bhumika Chawla’s Performance: Bhumika Chawla delivered a compelling performance as Nirjara. Her chemistry with Salman Khan added depth to the love story.

“**Tere Naam” was both a critical and commercial success. It showcased Salman Khan’s versatility as an actor and remains one of his most memorable performances. The film also addressed important social issues and initiated conversations about mental health in India. Its emotional intensity and powerful performances continue to touch the hearts of audiences, making it a cult classic in Indian cinema. “Tere Naam” is a testament to the enduring appeal of love stories that transcend societal barriers and explore the depths of human emotions.

6. Dabangg (2010):

“Dabangg,” released in 2010, is a Bollywood action-comedy film directed by Abhinav Kashyap. This film is not only known for its high-octane action sequences but also for introducing the iconic character Chulbul Pandey, played by Salman Khan, who quickly became a pop culture sensation in India.

Plot: “Dabangg” is set in the fictional town of Laalgunj in Uttar Pradesh, where Chulbul Pandey (Salman Khan) serves as a fearless and quirky police officer. He is known for his unorthodox methods and a strong sense of justice. The film explores Chulbul’s personal and professional life, including his strained relationship with his stepfather and stepbrother, his romance with Rajo (Sonakshi Sinha), and his ongoing battle against a corrupt politician, Chhedi Singh (Sonu Sood). The movie is a blend of action, comedy, and drama, with Chulbul Pandey’s character at the center of it all.

Key Highlights:

• Chulbul Pandey Character: Salman Khan’s portrayal of Chulbul Pandey became an instant hit. His unique style, witty one-liners, and charismatic persona made the character iconic. Chulbul’s character, with his signature sunglasses and mustache, remains one of Salman Khan’s most beloved roles.
• Action Sequences: “Dabangg” features intense and well-choreographed action sequences that showcased Salman Khan’s agility and physical prowess. His confrontations with the antagonist, Chhedi Singh, were particularly memorable.
• Music: The film’s music, composed by Sajid-Wajid, was a chartbuster. Songs like “Munni Badnaam Hui” and “Tere Mast Mast Do Nain” became immensely popular and are still played at parties and weddings.
• Sonakshi Sinha’s Debut: “Dabangg” marked the debut of Sonakshi Sinha, who played the role of Rajo. Her performance and chemistry with Salman Khan were widely appreciated.
• Entertainment Quotient: The film seamlessly blends action, comedy, and drama, making it an entertaining watch for a wide range of audiences.

“Dabangg” was a massive commercial success and redefined Salman Khan’s image as an action hero. It spawned two successful sequels, “Dabangg 2” and “Dabangg 3,” further solidifying Chulbul Pandey’s status as a beloved Bollywood character. The film’s impact on pop culture is undeniable, with Chulbul Pandey’s character continuing to be celebrated by fans and even inspiring merchandise, television shows, and video games. Overall, “Dabangg” is a testament to Salman Khan’s star power and his ability to create memorable and entertaining characters that resonate with audiences.

7. Bodyguard (2011):

“Bodyguard,” released in 2011, is a Bollywood action-comedy film directed by Siddique and starring Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan in the lead roles. This film is known for its mix of action, romance, and humor, and it was a major box-office success.

Plot: The story of “Bodyguard” revolves around Lovely Singh (Salman Khan), a dedicated and loyal bodyguard who is appointed to protect Divya (Kareena Kapoor Khan), a beautiful young woman who is constantly threatened by unknown enemies. As Lovely fulfills his duty to keep Divya safe, a romantic bond begins to develop between them. However, their love faces challenges, including Divya’s family’s opposition and the revelation of a secret that could change everything.

Key Highlights:

• Salman Khan’s Charming Role: Salman Khan’s portrayal of Lovely Singh as a tough and dedicated bodyguard with a soft heart struck a chord with audiences. His charismatic presence added depth to the character and the film.
• Kareena Kapoor Khan’s Performance: Kareena Kapoor Khan delivered a spirited performance as Divya. Her chemistry with Salman Khan was appreciated by fans, adding to the film’s appeal.
• Action Sequences: “Bodyguard” features action-packed sequences, showcasing Salman Khan’s action hero persona. His daring stunts and fight scenes were a major draw for audiences.
• Music: The film’s music, composed by Himesh Reshammiya, was a hit. Songs like “Teri Meri” and “Desi Beat” became chartbusters, contributing to the film’s success.
• Humor: The film incorporates humor and light-hearted moments, balancing the action and romance with comedy. The humorous interactions between the characters added to the entertainment factor.

“Bodyguard” was a major box office hit and received a positive response from audiences. It showcased Salman Khan’s ability to excel in action-comedy roles and further solidified his position as a bankable star in Bollywood. The film’s blend of romance, action, and humor made it a crowd-pleaser, and it remains a popular choice for fans of Salman Khan and Bollywood entertainment.

8. Ek Tha Tiger (2012):

“Ek Tha Tiger,” released in 2012, is a Bollywood espionage thriller directed by Kabir Khan. Starring Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif in the lead roles, the film is known for its gripping storyline, thrilling action sequences, and the on-screen chemistry between the lead pair.

Plot: The film follows the story of Tiger (Salman Khan), an elite Indian intelligence officer tasked with various undercover missions. He is assigned to surveil and track down a suspected Indian scientist, Dr. Shenoy (Roshan Seth), who has allegedly been sharing sensitive information with Pakistan. During his mission in Dublin, Tiger meets and falls in love with Zoya (Katrina Kaif), a dance instructor who is unaware of his true identity. As their relationship deepens, Tiger and Zoya become embroiled in a web of international espionage, leading to a series of action-packed sequences and a high-stakes mission to protect their countries.

Key Highlights:

• Salman Khan’s Action Hero Avatar: “Ek Tha Tiger” marked Salman Khan’s foray into the spy thriller genre, and he delivered an impressive performance as the suave and capable agent, Tiger. His action sequences and stunts were a major draw for fans.
• Katrina Kaif’s Performance: Katrina Kaif portrayed the character of Zoya, and her chemistry with Salman Khan added depth to the film. Her role as a strong and independent woman was appreciated by audiences.
• International Locations: The film was shot in various international locations, including Dublin, Istanbul, and Havana, which added to its visual appeal.
• Action Sequences: “Ek Tha Tiger” featured high-octane action sequences choreographed by Hollywood stunt directors. The film’s action scenes, including a memorable chase on Istanbul rooftops, were a major highlight.
• Thrilling Espionage Plot: The film’s espionage plot kept audiences engaged and guessing throughout. It blended elements of romance, action, and suspense effectively.

“Ek Tha Tiger” was a commercial success and received positive reviews from both critics and audiences. It also led to the successful 2017 sequel, “Tiger Zinda Hai.” The film showcased Salman Khan’s versatility as an actor and his ability to excel in different genres. Its international appeal, thrilling storyline, and the chemistry between Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif contributed to its success, making it a memorable entry in the spy thriller genre in Indian cinema.

9. Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015):

“Bajrangi Bhaijaan,” released in 2015, is a heartwarming Bollywood drama directed by Kabir Khan. The film stars Salman Khan in the lead role and features an emotional and socially relevant storyline that resonated deeply with audiences.

Plot: The film follows the story of Pavan Kumar Chaturvedi, fondly known as Bajrangi (Salman Khan), a devout Hanuman devotee and a simple man from India’s rural heartland. He crosses paths with a mute, lost girl named Munni (Harshaali Malhotra), who is stranded in India after accidentally crossing the border from Pakistan. Determined to reunite Munni with her family, Bajrangi embarks on a journey of love, compassion, and self-discovery. Along the way, he encounters several challenges, including language barriers, cultural differences, and political tensions, but his unwavering determination and humanity drive him forward.

Key Highlights:

• Salman Khan’s Heartfelt Performance: Salman Khan delivered a standout performance as Bajrangi, showcasing his versatility as an actor. His portrayal of a simple and compassionate man touched the hearts of audiences.
• Harshaali Malhotra’s Debut: Harshaali Malhotra made her debut as Munni in “Bajrangi Bhaijaan” and garnered immense praise for her portrayal of the mute girl. Her innocence and expressive eyes made her character endearing.
• Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s Supporting Role: Nawazuddin Siddiqui played the role of Chand Nawab, a journalist who assists Bajrangi on his mission. His comedic timing and memorable dialogues added a layer of humor to the film.
• Social Relevance: “Bajrangi Bhaijaan” addressed themes of cross-border tensions, human empathy, and the power of love to transcend political and cultural boundaries. The film carried a message of unity and humanity.
• Beautiful Music: The film’s soundtrack, composed by Pritam, featured soulful and melodious songs. Tracks like “Bhar Do Jholi Meri,” “Tu Jo Mila,” and “Selfie Le Le Re” became popular.
• Scenic Locations: The film was shot in picturesque locations in India and Pakistan, adding to its visual appeal.

“Bajrangi Bhaijaan” received widespread critical acclaim and was a massive box office success. It won numerous awards, including the National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. The film’s emotional depth, heartwarming storyline, and the portrayal of human compassion struck a chord with audiences worldwide. It remains one of Salman Khan’s most beloved and critically acclaimed films, known for its poignant message of love and unity that transcends borders and differences.

10. Sultan (2016):

“Sultan,” released in 2016, is a Bollywood sports drama film directed by Ali Abbas Zafar. Starring Salman Khan in the titular role, the film explores the world of wrestling and showcases the journey of a fallen wrestler’s redemption and resurgence.

Plot: “Sultan” tells the story of Sultan Ali Khan (Salman Khan), a talented wrestler from Haryana who has a tumultuous life. After facing personal setbacks and losing his way, Sultan decides to make a comeback in the wrestling world to regain his lost glory and respect. He undergoes rigorous training and faces formidable opponents in the ring. The film also focuses on his relationship with Aarfa Hussain (Anushka Sharma), a fellow wrestler, and their journey together as they strive for success and redemption.

Key Highlights:

• Salman Khan’s Transformation: Salman Khan underwent a significant physical transformation for the role of Sultan, gaining muscle mass and adopting a wrestler’s physique. His dedication to the character was widely praised.
• Wrestling Action: “Sultan” features intense and well-choreographed wrestling sequences that added authenticity to the film. Salman Khan’s training and performance in the ring were impressive.
• Anushka Sharma’s Performance: Anushka Sharma delivered a strong and impactful performance as Aarfa, Sultan’s love interest and a talented wrestler in her own right. Their chemistry added depth to the film.
• Sports Drama: The film explores the struggles and triumphs of a wrestler’s life, emphasizing the dedication, discipline, and hard work required to excel in the sport.
• Music: The film’s soundtrack, composed by Vishal-Shekhar, featured catchy songs like “Baby Ko Bass Pasand Hai” and “Jag Ghoomeya,” contributing to the film’s appeal.
• Emotional Depth: “Sultan” delves into the personal and emotional journey of its characters, highlighting themes of love, redemption, and self-discovery.

“Sultan” was a massive box office success and received positive reviews from both critics and audiences. It also won several awards and nominations. The film showcased Salman Khan’s versatility as an actor and his commitment to the role. It resonated with sports enthusiasts and wrestling fans while also appealing to a wider audience due to its emotional storyline. “Sultan” remains a significant entry in Salman Khan’s filmography and a compelling sports drama in Indian cinema.

11. Tiger Zinda Hai (2017):

The sequel to “Ek Tha Tiger,” this film continued the story of the secret agent Tiger. The high-octane action sequences and Salman Khan’s charisma made it a blockbuster.

12. Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994):

Another collaboration with Sooraj R. Barjatya, this family drama became one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films of its time, emphasizing traditional Indian values and culture.

13. Bharat (2019):

Directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, “Bharat” explored India’s post-independence history through the life of the protagonist, played by Salman Khan. The film was a commercial success.

14. Radhe:

Your Most Wanted Bhai (2021): Salman Khan returned as Radhe in this action-packed thriller directed by Prabhu Deva. Despite a challenging release during the COVID-19 pandemic, the film managed to impress fans.

15. Wanted (2009):

Salman Khan’s action-packed avatar as Radhe in this Prabhu Deva directorial redefined his career. The film’s success marked the beginning of the ‘Salman Khan action hero’ era.

Conclusion

Salman Khan’s journey in Bollywood has been nothing short of remarkable. From his debut as a fresh-faced young actor in “Maine Pyar Kiya” to his iconic roles as Chulbul Pandey and Tiger, he has consistently delivered blockbuster hits that have resonated with audiences across generations. His ability to effortlessly switch between action-packed roles, heartwarming dramas, and romantic sagas is a testament to his versatility as an actor.

The top 15 blockbuster movies of Salman Khan listed in this article not only showcase his acting prowess but also highlight his enduring appeal as a superstar. Whether it’s his charismatic presence on screen, his signature dialogue delivery, or his commitment to his characters, Salman Khan has carved a special place in the hearts of his fans.

As Salman Khan continues to entertain audiences with his unique style and larger-than-life persona, it’s evident that his star power remains undiminished. With each new release, fans eagerly anticipate the next blockbuster that will further solidify his legacy in Indian cinema.

In conclusion, Salman Khan’s journey from a young debutant to a megastar is a testament to his talent, hard work, and the unwavering love of his fans. As we celebrate the top 15 blockbuster movies of Salman Khan, we can only look forward to more cinematic magic from this beloved ‘Bhai’ in the years to come.