Kabir Khan reminisced about his on-set clashes with Salman Khan during the filming of "Ek Tha Tiger." He revealed that they frequently had disagreements and differing opinions, but ultimately, the project progressed successfully.
Entertainment: The pairing of Salman Khan and director Kabir Khan has delivered several blockbuster films to Bollywood. Films like "Ek Tha Tiger" and "Bajrangi Bhaijaan" remain etched in the audience's memory. But did you know that the shooting of "Ek Tha Tiger" witnessed numerous arguments and disagreements between Salman Khan and Kabir Khan? Kabir Khan recently revealed this in an interview.
Kabir Khan Recounts his "Ek Tha Tiger" Experience
Film director Kabir Khan recently shared that while filming "Ek Tha Tiger" with Salman Khan, they experienced several disagreements and differences of opinion. He mentioned that everything went smoothly during the scripting phase, but once shooting commenced, their working styles diverged. Kabir explained that Salman preferred working in his own way, while Kabir adhered to his storytelling style. This led to several clashes of ideas on set.
However, these clashes were professional, with both aiming to enhance the film. Kabir Khan stated that although the film wasn't entirely under his control, their collaborative energy was excellent, leading to the film's superhit status.
On-Set Arguments with Salman Khan: Kabir Khan Says the Script Wasn't Entirely Under His Control
In a recent interview, film director Kabir Khan shared that things weren't easy initially when he first collaborated with Salman Khan on "Ek Tha Tiger." It was Kabir's third film, and Salman was at the peak of his career. Significantly, it was Salman's first project with Yash Raj Films, and Kabir's first film with such a big star.
Kabir Khan mentioned that arguments started as soon as they arrived on set. They often had conflicting opinions. Sometimes Salman wanted to perform a scene in his style, and sometimes Kabir preferred his approach. He explained that the film's script wasn't entirely under his control; things frequently changed on set.
Nevertheless, Kabir Khan stated that they completed the film, understanding each other's energy. Despite initial disagreements, a synergy gradually developed, resulting in the blockbuster success of "Ek Tha Tiger."
Aditya Chopra Suggested the Collaboration with Salman Khan
Director Kabir Khan revealed that Aditya Chopra of Yash Raj Films suggested the collaboration with Salman Khan. Kabir explained that he was seeking a new idea after completing a few films. Aditya Chopra then advised him to work with a major superstar to enhance both his experience and the film's reach.
Kabir Khan recounted, "'Adi told me I should make a film with a big star. I asked why. He said I now have the capability to handle a big star well and create something significant.'"
Following this conversation, Kabir Khan began writing the script for "Ek Tha Tiger." He crafted the entire story keeping Salman Khan's persona in mind to ensure audience engagement and effective utilization of Salman's star power. The film subsequently became a blockbuster, making the Salman-Kabir duo a prominent industry pair.
The Script Was Written with Salman Khan in Mind
Director Kabir Khan clearly stated that he crafted the "Ek Tha Tiger" script keeping Salman Khan's personality in mind. He explained in the interview that he was aware of the roles in which Salman left the most impact and the scenes where his performance was most powerful. Therefore, he incorporated elements suitable for Salman.
Kabir stated, "I included elements in my script that I believed Salman could excel at. He has a unique style that resonates with the audience, so I shaped the story accordingly."
However, Kabir Khan also acknowledged that working with a major superstar isn't easy. Directors often need to adapt their vision. He said, "When you work with a star of that level, you have to handle things differently. You need to be flexible with the script and direction."
A Tug-of-War Between Salman and Kabir During Shooting
During the shooting of "Ek Tha Tiger," director Kabir Khan and Salman Khan frequently had disagreements. Kabir Khan himself shared that sometimes he had to restrain Salman from overacting, while at other times, Salman pushed him to achieve a better take. Such creative debates were common.
Kabir Khan also mentioned that while the atmosphere was often harmonious, there were times when one or the other became slightly irritated. Despite this, they maintained a good rapport.
He admitted that the film wasn't entirely under his control, but the energy between him and Salman contributed to the film's excellence, making "Ek Tha Tiger" a beloved audience favorite. It was a synergy between star and director where, despite disagreements, the objective remained the same—to improve the film.
The Success of "Ek Tha Tiger" and the Launch of the YRF Spy Universe
Released in 2012, "Ek Tha Tiger" created a box office sensation. Salman Khan portrayed an Indian spy, "Tiger," alongside Katrina Kaif as a Pakistani agent. The film's story was filled with thrill and patriotism, interestingly depicting the budding relationship between Indian and Pakistani spies.
The film's popularity stemmed not only from the Salman-Katrina pairing but also from its powerful action sequences, locations, and exceptional music. The success of "Ek Tha Tiger" paved a new path for Yash Raj Films, marking the beginning of the YRF Spy Universe.
This universe subsequently included films like "Tiger Zinda Hai" (2017), "War" (2019), and "Pathaan" (2023). All these films featured high-octane action, international missions, and big stars connected within a specific universe. Each film in this franchise was a superhit, establishing the YRF Spy Universe as the largest action franchise in Indian cinema.
Awaiting "Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2"
Salman Khan's superhit film "Bajrangi Bhaijaan" was widely loved by audiences. Now, anticipation for its sequel, "Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2," is building. However, it remains uncertain whether Kabir Khan will direct it or if another director will take the helm. Fans hope the Salman and Kabir duo will reunite, delivering an even bigger and more emotional story. If that happens, the film could again set box office records.
