Salman Khan's Cinematic Journey: A Decade of Stardom in the 2000s

Nov 10, 2025 by pinkandtrash.com 62 views

Salman Khan’s Cinematic Journey: A Decade of Stardom in the 2000s

The turn of the millennium marked a fascinating and often transformative period for many Bollywood stars, and Salman Khan’s movies in the 2000s were no exception. This decade witnessed the actor navigate a series of highs and lows, experiment with diverse genres, and ultimately cement his position as one of the most bankable and beloved stars in Indian cinema. From romantic comedies to intense dramas and high-octane action thrillers, Khan’s filmography during these ten years is a rich tapestry that showcases his evolving persona and enduring appeal. The 2000s were critical in shaping the ‘Bhaijaan’ image that would later become synonymous with his brand, demonstrating his unique ability to connect with mass audiences. His choices during this era laid the groundwork for the unparalleled superstardom he would achieve in the following decade, making a detailed look at his 2000s output essential for any fan or film historian. We delve deep into the films that defined this crucial phase of his career, exploring their impact on his legacy and the broader landscape of Hindi cinema.

The Dawn of a New Millennium: Salman Khan’s Early 2000s Ventures (2000-2003)

As the calendar flipped to the year 2000, Salman Khan entered a new era of filmmaking, eager to build upon the successes of the 1990s. The early 2000s, specifically from 2000 to 2003, saw him experiment with various roles, attempting to diversify his image beyond the ‘प्रेम’ (Prem) persona that had defined much of his early career. One of his notable early releases was Har Dil Jo Pyar Karega… (2000), a romantic comedy-drama alongside Preity Zinta and Rani Mukerji. This film, though a moderate success, continued to showcase his prowess in romantic roles, albeit with a comedic twist. It highlighted his ability to blend charm with light-hearted humor, resonating with younger audiences. Following this, 2001 brought Chori Chori Chupke Chupke, a controversial film for its subject matter of surrogacy, where Khan starred opposite Preity Zinta and Rani Mukerji once more. The film was a commercial hit, praised for its bold narrative and the earnest performances of its lead trio. It was a step towards more mature and thought-provoking subjects, indicating Khan’s willingness to tackle unconventional stories.

However, it was 2003 that proved to be a watershed year for Salman Khan’s career with the release of Tere Naam. This intense romantic tragedy, where he played Radhe Mohan, a hot-headed college student whose life takes a tragic turn, redefined his image and garnered significant critical attention. His raw, emotional performance, particularly his distinctive hairstyle and intense gaze, became iconic. The film was a massive box office success and remains one of his most remembered performances, showcasing a depth and vulnerability rarely seen from him before. The film’s music, direction, and Salman’s portrayal resonated deeply with audiences, cementing its place as a classic in his filmography. Before Tere Naam, 2002 saw him in Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge, an action thriller that, while not reaching the heights of Tere Naam, still demonstrated his capability in action sequences. Other films like Kahin Pyaar Na Ho Jaaye (2000) and Chalo Ishq Ladaaye (2002) further explored his comedic and romantic talents, though they were met with mixed commercial results. This period was characterized by a search for identity, with Salman trying to break free from typecasting while still leveraging his strong fan base in the romantic and family drama genres. His dedication to each role, even in films that didn’t achieve blockbuster status, was evident, paving the way for the greater successes that would follow. The early 2000s were thus a crucial building block, allowing Khan to experiment and discover the types of roles that truly clicked with his audience, ultimately preparing him for a decade of sustained stardom.

Solidifying Stardom: A Mix of Action and Romance (2004-2006)

The mid-2000s, from 2004 to 2006, represented a period where Salman Khan truly began to solidify his superstar status, showcasing a captivating blend of action, romance, and comedy that appealed to a broad demographic. This era saw him starring in a series of films that not only performed well at the box office but also further diversified his portfolio, proving his versatility as an actor. One of the standout films from this period was Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004), a blockbuster romantic comedy directed by David Dhawan. Sharing screen space with Akshay Kumar and Priyanka Chopra, Khan’s comedic timing and effortless charm were on full display, making the film an unforgettable audience favorite. His rivalry and bromance with Akshay Kumar formed the core of the film’s appeal, showcasing his ability to shine even in multi-starrers. The same year, he delivered a more serious performance in Garv: Pride & Honour, an action-drama where he portrayed an honest police officer. This film allowed him to delve into a gritty, intense character, appealing to audiences who appreciated his action hero persona. It was a departure from his usual romantic fare, demonstrating his range and commitment to exploring different genres.

Perhaps the biggest game-changer of this period for Salman Khan was No Entry (2005), another comedic masterpiece directed by Anees Bazmee. This ensemble comedy, featuring Anil Kapoor, Fardeen Khan, Lara Dutta, Bipasha Basu, and Esha Deol, was a mammoth commercial success, becoming one of the highest-grossing films of the year. Salman’s portrayal of the womanizing Prem, with his characteristic swagger and hilarious one-liners, was a major draw. The film’s success underscored his undeniable talent for comedy and his magnetic screen presence, even when sharing the spotlight. It proved that Salman could carry a film with his comedic prowess, a trait that would be increasingly leveraged in his later career. However, not all his ventures during this time were pure comedies. Kyon Ki (2005), a romantic drama where he reunited with Priyadarshan, presented him in a more somber and emotionally charged role, showcasing his acting depth alongside Kareena Kapoor. While it wasn’t a huge box office success, it was noted for its strong performances. In 2006, Jaan-E-Mann, a romantic musical, saw him opposite Akshay Kumar and Preity Zinta again. Although the film received mixed reviews, his performance was generally well-received. This period was marked by Salman Khan’s growing confidence in his choices, moving between light-hearted entertainment and more serious roles with ease. The sustained success of his Salman Khan movies in the 2000s during these years solidified his position not just as a star, but as a major force at the box office, preparing him for the monumental success that lay ahead.

The Later Half: Experimentation and Mass Appeal (2007-2009)

The latter half of the 2000s, from 2007 to 2009, proved to be a fascinating and ultimately pivotal phase in Salman Khan’s film career, setting the stage for his unparalleled dominance in the subsequent decade. This period was characterized by a deliberate shift towards roles that emphasized his mass appeal, particularly in the action and comedy genres, while also showing instances of experimentation. In 2007, he starred in Partner, a highly successful romantic comedy directed by David Dhawan, where he played a ‘love guru’ alongside Govinda. The film was a box office smash, celebrated for its hilarious plot, catchy music, and the fantastic chemistry between Salman and Govinda. Salman’s portrayal was charismatic and full of his signature charm, reinforcing his position as a master of light-hearted entertainment. This film proved that his comedic timing and ability to lead a star-studded cast were stronger than ever.

Following Partner, Salman Khan continued to explore diverse subjects, though not always with immediate blockbuster results. 2008 saw him in God Tussi Great Ho, a fantasy comedy loosely inspired by ‘Bruce Almighty’. While the film received a lukewarm response, it again showcased his comfort in humorous roles. However, it was 2009 that delivered the defining moment of this era, and perhaps one of the most significant films in his entire career: Wanted. Directed by Prabhu Deva, Wanted was an unadulterated action thriller that instantly became a blockbuster. Salman’s portrayal of Radhe, an undercover cop, was raw, stylish, and packed with memorable dialogues and action sequences. The film was a game-changer, not just for Salman but for the entire action genre in Bollywood. It single-handedly resurrected his career, giving him a much-needed commercial hit after a series of films that had met with mixed results. Wanted created a new template for the action hero, establishing the ‘bhai’ persona that would become his trademark. It demonstrated his ability to carry an entire film on his shoulders, delivering a performance that resonated deeply with the masses. Before Wanted, films like Hello (2008), Yuvvraaj (2008), and Main Aurr Mrs Khanna (2009) had varying degrees of success, with Yuvvraaj being a more artistic but commercially challenging venture. However, Wanted overshadowed them all, proving that the audiences craved Salman in a strong, no-nonsense action avatar. The success of Wanted cemented Salman Khan’s return to the top, confirming his enduring power at the box office and establishing a clear trajectory for his future projects. The latter 2000s, therefore, were instrumental in recalibrating his career, ending the decade on a high note that promised even greater things to come.

Beyond the Box Office: Salman Khan’s Impact and Legacy of the 2000s

Beyond the mere box office numbers and critical receptions, Salman Khan’s movies in the 2000s had a profound impact on his evolving persona and legacy, shaping the superstar he is today. This decade was crucial in solidifying his unique brand—a blend of raw charisma, emotional depth, and an undeniable connection with the common man. It was during these years that the foundations of his ‘Bhaijaan’ image, characterized by a benevolent strongman who stands for justice and family values, were truly laid. While the 1990s introduced him as a romantic hero, the 2000s expanded his repertoire, allowing him to portray more complex characters and explore a wider range of emotions, from the intense vulnerability in Tere Naam to the hilarious bravado in No Entry and the iconic action hero in Wanted. This versatility, often underestimated, proved his ability to adapt and stay relevant in a rapidly changing industry.

Furthermore, the 2000s saw the beginnings of Salman Khan’s significant philanthropic efforts, even if his ‘Being Human’ foundation officially launched in 2007. The seeds of his social consciousness and desire to give back to society were evident in his public appearances and growing fan interactions. This added another layer to his public image, transforming him from just a film star into a figure admired for his humanitarian work. Controversies, too, were a part of his journey during this decade, yet they often seemed to strengthen his connection with his core fan base, who remained fiercely loyal. This unwavering support underscored the personal rapport he had built with his audience, transcending cinematic performances. The Salman Khan movies in the 2000s also showcased his key collaborations with directors like David Dhawan and Anees Bazmee, who understood his comedic timing, and with actors like Govinda and Akshay Kumar, with whom he shared incredible on-screen chemistry. These partnerships resulted in some of the decade’s most memorable and successful films, highlighting his ability to be both a leading man and a pivotal part of an ensemble cast. The challenges and triumphs of this decade ultimately prepared him for the unprecedented success of the 2010s, where he would consistently deliver mega-blockbusters and become one of the most powerful figures in Bollywood. The 2000s were not just a series of films; they were a testament to Salman Khan’s resilience, his evolving artistry, and his undeniable connection with the heart of Indian cinema.

Key Collaborations and Memorable Performances

Throughout the 2000s, Salman Khan forged strong alliances that significantly contributed to his filmography. His partnership with director David Dhawan yielded comedic gems like Har Dil Jo Pyar Karega... and the immensely popular Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, showcasing his mastery of slapstick and situational comedy. Dhawan’s understanding of Salman’s charismatic persona allowed him to extract some of the actor’s most entertaining performances. Similarly, his collaboration with Anees Bazmee resulted in the iconic multi-starrer No Entry, a film that is still celebrated for its ensemble cast and hilarious plot. These directors intuitively knew how to leverage Salman’s unique blend of arrogance and charm, making their films highly re-watchable and commercially successful. Furthermore, his on-screen chemistry with co-stars like Govinda in Partner was a highlight, proving his ability to share the spotlight and elevate a film’s comedic quotient. The emotional depth displayed in films like Tere Naam, under the direction of Satish Kaushik, also stands out, reminding audiences of his dramatic capabilities. These collaborations were instrumental in diversifying his roles and ensuring that Salman Khan’s movie 2000s filmography remained vibrant and engaging, creating numerous memorable characters that resonate with fans even today. Each performance, whether a comedic relief or a tragic hero, added another dimension to his growing legend.

The Box Office Juggernaut

The 2000s were undoubtedly a period of significant commercial success for Salman Khan, solidifying his position as a box office juggernaut. While not every film was a record-breaker, his consistent string of hits and strong performers demonstrated his immense drawing power. Films like Har Dil Jo Pyar Karega... (2000), Chori Chori Chupke Chupke (2001), Tere Naam (2003), Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004), No Entry (2005), Partner (2007), and especially Wanted (2009) were major commercial successes, often ranking among the highest-grossing films of their respective years. Tere Naam and Wanted are particularly noteworthy as they not only grossed handsomely but also redefined his career trajectory, proving his ability to deliver both critical and commercial hits. Even his films that didn’t reach blockbuster status often managed respectable collections, a testament to his dedicated fan base. This consistent performance at the ticket window ensured that producers and distributors continued to invest in his projects, recognizing the undeniable appeal of Salman Khan movies in the 2000s. His ability to consistently bring audiences to theaters, regardless of critical acclaim, underscored his burgeoning stardom and set the precedent for his future reign at the apex of Bollywood’s commercial landscape.

Conclusion: The Unmistakable Mark of Salman Khan

In retrospective, the 2000s were far more than just another decade for Salman Khan; they were a crucible that forged the unmistakable superstar he is recognized as today. The Salman Khan movies in the 2000s present a comprehensive narrative of an actor’s journey through experimentation, critical re-evaluation, and ultimately, triumphant resurgence. From the early attempts to diversify his romantic image with films like Har Dil Jo Pyar Karega… to the profound emotional depth he showcased in Tere Naam, and from the uproarious comedic brilliance of No Entry and Partner to the groundbreaking action hero persona in Wanted, each film contributed to the complex mosaic of his filmography. This period was pivotal not just for his individual career but also for setting new trends within the industry, particularly in the action genre with Wanted fundamentally altering audience expectations.

His ability to connect with diverse audiences, seamlessly transitioning between romantic leads, comedic roles, and intense action heroes, cemented his position as a versatile and commercially viable star. The decade taught him resilience, allowing him to navigate personal and professional challenges while maintaining an unwavering fan base. These years were instrumental in building the ‘Bhaijaan’ brand – an icon whose films are often driven by an intrinsic appeal that transcends conventional critical parameters. The legacy of Salman Khan’s movies from the 2000s is thus one of continuous evolution, strategic choices, and an undeniable impact on the popular culture of Indian cinema. His enduring appeal, built on a foundation of memorable performances and an indelible connection with his audience, truly took shape during these ten years. As we look back, it’s clear that the 2000s were not just a chapter in Salman Khan’s career; they were the defining epoch that prepared him for the colossal stardom and influence he would command in the years that followed, marking him as one of Bollywood’s most enduring and beloved figures. The lessons learned and the successes garnered in this decade were crucial stepping stones, underscoring the enduring power and charisma of one of India’s biggest cinematic legends.