DNA (November 16, 2015)
Salman Khan’s Prem Ratan Dhan Payo opened to the highest first day collections ever. The film made Rs 39 crore when it released on Thursday, breaking Salman Khan’s long-standing Diwali release jinx. Salman Khan, an Eid favourite, has delivered successes on other days as well. However when it comes to Diwali, he has had tough luck, at least over the last decade. Here’s looking at Diwali releases over the years. This is where he has played the lead role or even appeared in extended special appearances, guest appearances or cameos.
2005: Kyon Ki...
When Priyadarshan decided to work with Salman Khan for the first time, it was for the tearjerker Kyon Ki... The film featured Kareena Kapoor as Salman’s leading lady. It was a disappointing Diwali for him.
2006: Jaan-E-Mann
Akshay Kumar and Salman came together for Jaan-e-Mann, in a musical romance by Shirish Kunder. The film flopped, hurting everyone associated.
2007: Saawariya
Sanjay Leela Bhansali launched Ranbir Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor with Saawariya, roping in Salman for an extended guest appearance. It wasn’t a Salman film, per se, but the fact remains that the film failed.
2008: Heroes
An episodic tale that featured a multitude of stars, Heroes featured Sohail Khan in the main lead. Brother Salman joined in as well and delivered a very endearing performance as a soldier. His episode was much appreciated. However, the film, as a whole, didn’t quite cover the distance as other Diwali releases.
2009: Main Aurr Mrs Khanna
This was the time when Salman Khan had just made a huge comeback with Wanted. However, this love triangle featuring Kareena Kapoor Khan, Sohail Khan and him was in the making for a while. It didn’t carry much buzz on its release and was a mega disaster.
2011: Tell Me O Kkhuda
When Esha Deol made her comeback with Tell Me Oh Khuda, mother Hema Malini roped in Salman Khan as a last measure. This was for a super miniscule appearance. Esha barely shared a frame or two with a rapping Salman Khan. No one was interested, the film was a disaster.