Salman Khan's emotions were running high after his successful acting debut in 'Maine Pyar Kiya'. This led to him addressing his fans in a handwritten note of love and thanks.
Salman Khan has now become one of the defining personalities of Bollywood. However, that may never have happened had his debut film not been a smashing success. That film was Sooraj Bajratya's Maine Pyar Kiya, which was released in 1989. Salman poured his heart and soul into his portrayal of 'Prem'. However, it seems that despite all his efforts, the star was still overwhelmed by the love of his fans. The rush of emotions prompted him to pen a heartfelt letter by hand, thanking them for their support.
Back in the 90s, one's avenues to express their love for their favourite celeb were limited. While the over-enthusiastic fans would show up at shooting locations, most expressed their adulation via fan mail. Some celebrities would then respond with letters of their own, and Salman Khan was one of them.
The letter was dated April 1990, indicating that the actor had penned it after the roaring success of his debut film. In May 2024, an image of the letter was posted to X, formerly known as Twitter. It has since gone viral with many praising the then-fledgling actor’s love for his fans.
Salman started the letter by telling his fans that there was something he wanted them to know about him. He thanked them wholeheartedly for not only accepting him but also for adoring him as his fans. Then, he went on to make them a commitment:
“I hope and will try my best to live up to your expectations in every film I do. I am being very choosy about the films I am doing and concentrating on good scripts to the best of my judgement because I know that whatever I do now will be compared to Maine Pyar Kiya. So whenever you hear an announcement, be rest assured that it is going to be a good film and I am going to give it my 100% best.”
Salman Khan has always been known for his deep connection with his fans, one that has existed since his rise to fame. This letter reflects just that with Salman assuring his fans that he loves them. He also humbly shared his hope that his fans would reciprocate that love for a long time. Emphasising their importance in making or breaking a star’s career, he said:
“I hope that you will keep on loving me because the day you stop loving me, you'll stop seeing my films, and that is the end of my career. Remember, you are the people who make people like us.”
Salman also alluded to his personal life briefly, saying that his fans were likely familiar with all there was to know. The statement quietly confirmed that he had indeed acquired the stature of a public figure. His life was now being intently followed by many. He penned:
“About my personal life, I don’t have much to say you know it already.”
Despite his breakout success, Salman felt that his journey to stardom was far from over. His sentiments were neatly conveyed in a closing statement that reflected both his modesty and his desire to reach greater heights. He concluded:
“People say that I have made it, I don't think so, I have yet to make it, but I know one thing that I have been accepted by you.”
Salman’s letter had much the same impact on fans in 2024 as it did in 1990. They took to social media to shower the legendary actor with praise for his innocent charm in the days gone by. One fan wrote about the letter, “It's beautifully thoughtful and truly demonstrates how much he values his fans!” while another said, “He has shown his respect & love for fans.”
Others lauded Salman for his thoughtful wording. They were impressed by Salman’s mention of focusing on good scripts to the best of his ability. To fans, the statement highlighted the star’s humility yet again as it indicated his awareness of his limitations. One fan has been inspired to use the ideology more in their own life. They said, “I mean it’s not something very profound but to me it kinda implies, someone is doing their best, and that best might not be the best thing in the world, but that's what their highest capacity is.”
A young Salman had many dreams in 1990. As of 2024, he has made all of them come true, adding accolade after accolade to his name. From the looks of it, the upcoming year will keep him on the same upward trajectory. 2025 will see Salman celebrating his diamond jubilee with at least 4 confirmed releases, all of which fans are eagerly waiting for.
Well, our hearts were certainly warmed by the nostalgic charm of Salman’s handwritten letter. What do you think of his touching gesture?
Also Read: When A Drunk Salman Khan Slapped Subhash Ghai After An Ugly Brawl, Had To Apologise To Him Later