Veteran exhibitor and producer Manoj Desai, known for the iconic Khuda Gawah and serving as executive director of G7 Multiplex and Maratha Mandir Cinema, recently shared his perspective on Salman Khan’s latest film Sikandar in an interview with Bollywood Hungama. Despite the film’s disappointing box-office run during the festive Eid 2025 season, Desai stood by Salman, stating the actor gave an emotional portrayal over audience expectations for high-octane action.
EXCLUSIVE: Manoj Desai calls Salman Khan starrer Sikandar a “very good film”; points out reason why Sajid Nadiadwala-backed film missed the mark despite releasing on Eid
Manoj Desai on Sikandar’s Box-Office Struggles
Released on Eid, a slot where Salman Khan typically dominates with blockbusters like Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015), Sikandar, directed by A.R. Murugadoss, failed to replicate that magic. The action-drama, co-starring Rashmika Mandanna, crossed Rs 100 crores globally by its eighth day but fell short of the massive opening fans anticipated. Desai acknowledged the audience’s mixed response, noting, “Film is very good. But somehow, log jaisa chahte the, Salman apne aap ko waise pesh nahin kar paaye.” He explained that Salman appeared “a little reserved,” a choice driven by the story’s demand for restraint rather than his signature larger-than-life persona.
Desai elaborated that fans craving relentless action were disappointed, as Salman prioritized emotions. “Har jagah action thodi hota hai?” he said, praising Salman’s nuanced performance. “Salman ne is film mein emotions par dhyaan rakhte hue apne aap ko present kiya hai and it’s very good.”
Salman’s Emotional Core Over Action
Addressing Sikandar’s underperformance despite the Eid advantage, Desai remained optimistic, citing Salman’s storied career. “Sikandar ko chhod kar unki kaafi filmein aisi hai jo jabarjast chali hai,” he remarked. Recalling a conversation with the star, Desai shared Salman’s philosophy: “Main action or fast-paced se badh kar emotions ko maanta hoon.” Desai agreed, noting that emotional depth often leaves a lasting impact, even if it doesn’t always translate to instant box-office success.
When asked if Salman should chase bold, transformative roles like Ranbir Kapoor’s in Animal (2023) or Kartik Aaryan’s in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 (2024), Desai dismissed the idea. “Pehle woh ye sab kuch kar chuka hai. Aapne uski Wanted film dekhi thi?” he asked, pointing to Salman’s extensive repertoire of action-packed and versatile roles. “Kya baaki hai, kuchh baaki nahin hai,” Desai added, suggesting Salman has already explored every facet of stardom.
More Pages: Sikandar Box Office Collection , Sikandar Movie Review
BOLLYWOOD NEWS – LIVE UPDATES
Catch us for latest Bollywood News, New Bollywood Movies update, Box office collection, New Movies Release , Bollywood News Hindi, Entertainment News, Bollywood Live News Today & Upcoming Movies 2025 and stay updated with latest hindi movies only on Bollywood Hungama.
