MUMBAI — Putting months of speculation to rest, Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has finally opened up about his highly anticipated collaboration with Jawan director Atlee, confirming that the project has been shelved — at least for now. In a recent promotional interview for his upcoming Eid release Sikandar, Khan addressed the rumours directly, citing budgetary concerns as the key reason behind the decision.
Atlee Collaboration Shelved Due to Budget Constraints
“There was a time it was happening,” Salman said. “We tried really hard to work it out, but somehow it didn’t happen. I believe it was the budget of the film. It’s a very high-budget film. So now the film has been pushed.”
This marks a significant letdown for fans who had hoped to see a mass-action entertainer in the style of Atlee’s previous blockbuster Jawan, which featured Shah Rukh Khan and turned into a pan-India sensation.
Date Reallocation and What’s Next for Salman
Salman added that he had allocated dates for two big projects, but with the Atlee film being delayed indefinitely, he now has space to commit to other ventures. Among the frontrunners is a film with veteran director Sooraj Barjatya, well-known for his iconic collaborations with Salman in Hum Aapke Hain Koun, Hum Saath-Saath Hain, and Prem Ratan Dhan Payo.
Barjatya is currently working on Prem Ki Shaadi with Ayushmann Khurrana. Post that, Salman is likely to headline Barjatya’s next directorial venture, continuing their celebrated cinematic partnership.
Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2: A Sequel in the Making?
Khan also gave fans a glimmer of hope regarding a sequel to his beloved 2015 film Bajrangi Bhaijaan. “A sequel can be made,” he said with a laugh, “but the problem is, by the time it’s ready, Munni will be speaking!” His playful comment hints at the long gestation period the script has gone through, but also suggests that some form of development is underway.
Tiger vs Pathaan Put on Hold
In what may be a slight disappointment to action fans, Salman confirmed that his high-octane spy thriller with Shah Rukh Khan, Tiger vs Pathaan, is not happening “right now.” The film has been heavily discussed as part of YRF’s Spy Universe, but timelines remain uncertain.
Still Plenty in Store for Salman Fans
While the Atlee collaboration may be off the cards for the moment, Salman Khan’s 2025 slate is anything but empty. With Sikandar set to arrive this Eid, and future possibilities with Barjatya and potentially Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2, Salman’s star power remains firmly in motion.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
