Bollywood superstar Salman Khan took five months to agree to work with Sonam Kapoor in the 2015 hit Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, directed by Sooraj Barjatya.
Despite his extensive career spanning over 30 years and numerous collaborations with actresses of various ages, Salman hesitated to romance Sonam, who is 19 years his junior and the daughter of his close friend, Anil Kapoor.
Barjatya was keen to cast Sonam after being impressed by her performance in Raanjhana. However, when he first presented her photos to Salman, the actor requested time to think it over.
A month later, Salman expressed his concerns, stating, “Sonam is much younger than me, and I’ve seen her grow up. How can I romance her on screen?” He also worried about their height difference, questioning, “Isn’t she too tall for me?”
Despite Salman’s reservations, Barjatya persisted for five months, convinced Sonam was the right choice. Sonam was eager to work with Salman and excited about the opportunity.
Eventually, Salman jokingly texted Barjatya, “From today, I’ll call Anil Kapoor ‘Anil sir’,” indicating his agreement to the casting.
In hindsight, Salman acknowledged Sonam’s suitability for the role, stating, “Even though I didn’t initially agree, Sooraj convinced me.” Sonam, unfazed by the age difference, expressed her excitement, saying, “I loved it! I’ve watched all his films.”
Their on-screen chemistry was well-received, and Prem Ratan Dhan Payo became a significant commercial success, grossing ₹432 crore worldwide on a ₹90 crore budget, making it the second-highest-grossing Bollywood film of 2015.
This film marked the fourth collaboration between Salman and Barjatya, following classics like Maine Pyar Kiya and Hum Aapke Hain Koun.
In addition to this, producer Sajid Nadiadwala announced Kick 2, the sequel to Salman’s blockbuster Kick, generating excitement among fans.
While the cast and shooting schedule remain under wraps, anticipation continues to grow as Salman wraps up his current project, Sikandar, set for an Eid 2025 release.
