Sooraj Barjatya says making 'relevant and fresh film for Salman Khan at his age is bigger CHALLENGE

Director Sooraj Barjatya, known for his iconic family dramas, has voiced his unwavering confidence in superstar Salman Khan, asserting that the actor is "going to make a comeback in a very big way." Despite a string of recent box office disappointments like 'Sikandar' (2025) and 'Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan' (2023), the filmmaker remains optimistic about his longtime collaborator's career.

Barjatya shared his perspective on the challenges of creating fresh and relevant content for the 59-year-old star, while also highlighting Khan's resilience and enduring appeal.

Sooraj Barjatya on the challenges of working with a superstar like Salman Khan

Sooraj Barjatya and Salman Khan have a legendary partnership, having delivered cinematic blockbusters like 'Maine Pyar Kiya', 'Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!', 'Hum Saath Saath Hain', and 'Prem Ratan Dhan Payo'. Their latest collaboration was set to be an action film, but the project was shelved because the director couldn't find the right character for the actor. In an interview with PTI, he said, "There are some subjects that you are not able to take it forward, you are unable to crack the climax or get the character, so till all of this does not come together, it doesn't make sense to make a film."The filmmaker further added, "I've barely made seven films, but this is what I've decided to do, and till the time I don't feel convinced, I won't make it. So, I'm so happy that Salman Bhai is with me, and today to make something relevant and fresh for him at his age is a bigger challenge."

Sooraj Barjatya on Salman Khan's recent struggles

While acknowledging Salman Khan's recent films haven't met fan expectations, Sooraj Barjatya believes this is a normal part of any celebrity's journey. He urged for more kindness and understanding towards the star. He added, "Everyone should be allowed to make a mistake, to learn, because that is what his life is. We have to allow each other to (grow), we should not be so harsh."Concluding his answer, the director said, "He is such a good person; he is so strong that he is going to come back in a very big way."

Salman Khan and Sooraj Barjatya's next projects

Sooraj Barjatya is gearing up to direct a new family drama, reportedly titled 'Prem Ki Shaadi', starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Sharvari, while Salman Khan has already started filming for his much-anticipated war drama, 'Battle of Galwan', directed by Apoorva Lakhia.