Bollywood’s beloved superstar Salman Khan returned to the big screen in 2025 with his much-anticipated action thriller, Sikandar. Released on the festive occasion of Eid al-Fitr, the film was a grand collaboration between Khan, producer Sajid Nadiadwala, and acclaimed director A.R. Murugadoss. While expectations were sky-high due to the power-packed trio behind the project, the film ended up receiving a mixed bag of responses both from critics and audiences alike.
A Powerful Team Behind the Film
Sikandar brought Salman Khan back together with Sajid Nadiadwala after their earlier blockbuster Kick. The film also marked Salman’s first venture with A.R. Murugadoss, the director known for his sharp storytelling in movies like Ghajini. With a budget of over ₹200 crore, Sikandar was designed to be a cinematic spectacle, complete with large-scale action sequences, gripping drama, and a star-studded cast.
The Story: Revenge, Redemption, and Raw Emotion
In the film, Salman Khan plays Sanjay “Sikandar” Rajkot, a man torn apart by personal loss and entangled in political power games. The plot follows his transformation from a grieving husband to a relentless force determined to bring justice to those who destroyed his family. Rashmika Mandanna plays Saisri Rajkot, Sikandar’s wife, and her emotional performance adds depth to the storyline. Supporting roles from Sathyaraj, Kajal Aggarwal, and Sharman Joshi further enrich the narrative, offering layers of drama and intrigue.
Action and Music: Big Budget, Bold Moves
One of the standout features of Sikandar is its grand action sequences. From high-speed train chases to aircraft stunts, the film spared no expense in delivering a visual treat. The action was well-choreographed and had the signature Salman Khan flair that fans love.
Musically, the film featured tracks by renowned composer Pritam. Songs like “Zohra Jabeen” and “Sikandar Naache” became instant hits, thanks to catchy melodies and visually stunning choreography. The background score, composed by Santhosh Narayanan, gave the movie a strong emotional and adrenaline-filled pulse.
The Verdict: A Mixed Reaction
Despite the star power and massive promotions, Sikandar received mixed reviews. While fans praised Salman’s screen presence and the action sequences, critics pointed out flaws in the script and direction. Some felt the story lacked originality and failed to capitalize on its powerful premise. At the box office, the movie managed to collect around ₹175 crore, falling short of expectations and its production budget.
What’s Next for Salman Khan?
Undeterred by the mixed performance of Sikandar, Salman Khan is already preparing for his next big project. Reports suggest he will undergo a significant physical transformation for a film based on the real-life 1988 Maldives coup attempt. The new film will be directed by Vishnu Vardhan and produced by Karan Johar, and will see Salman in a more intense, military-style role that demands peak physical fitness and a fresh look.
Final Thoughts
Sikandar may not have lived up to all the hype, but it reinforced Salman Khan’s dedication to delivering high-energy performances and experimenting with new roles. As he takes on more challenging characters and ventures into diverse stories, fans are hopeful that the next phase of his career will bring fresh surprises and memorable performances.
Salman Khan remains one of Bollywood’s most influential figures, and whether his films break records or not, his impact on Indian cinema continues to be undeniable.
