Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, 59, and actress Rashmika Mandanna, 28, are set to share the screen in the upcoming film Sikandar. The 31-year age gap between the lead pair has sparked considerable discussion among fans and critics alike. Tupaki English
At the trailer launch event for Sikandar, Salman Khan addressed the age difference, stating, “If Rashmika and her father have no objections, then others shouldn’t have an issue either.” FilmiBeat
This remark has drawn criticism from various quarters. Singer Sona Mohapatra took to social media to express her disapproval, labeling Salman as the “bhai of toxic masculinity.” YouTube+2The Siasat Daily+2Reddit+2Tupaki English+3FilmiBeat+3Hindustan Times+3
The casting choice has reignited debates about Bollywood’s trend of pairing older male actors with significantly younger female leads. This practice has been observed in several films, including Dabangg 3 (2019), where Salman Khan, then 54, was paired opposite 21-year-old Saiee Manjrekar, reflecting a 33-year age difference. Hindustan Times+2Bollywood Hungama+2The Siasat Daily+2
Despite the controversy, anticipation for Sikandar remains high, with fans eager to see the on-screen chemistry between Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna. The film is slated for release on Eid 2025.
