Salman Khan on 31-Year Age Gap with Rashmika Mandanna in Sikandar 'Tumko Kyun Dikkat Hai Bhai

 Salman Khan on 31-Year Age Gap with Rashmika Mandanna in Sikandar: 'Tumko Kyun Dikkat Hai Bhai?'

Salman Khan has never had any dilemma about the way he reacts to criticism—be it criticism of his movies, his personal life, or his ever-discussed relationship with Bollywood's age gap love stories. In his next film Sikandar, the debate has resumed, as he pairs up with Rashmika Mandanna, 31 years younger than him.

Whereas some fans look forward to watching this new on-screen couple, others have criticized the industry's casting decisions. But Salman, as ever suave and unconcerned, had a one-word answer:

"Tumko kyun dikkat hai bhai?"

The Age-Gap Debate: Old Wine in a New Bottle

Bollywood has witnessed this trend for decades—older male heroes wooing much younger heroines. Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Akshay Kumar, Ajay Devgn, and even Aamir Khan have all been a part of such pairings. And Salman himself has paired with actresses much younger than him, such as Sonam Kapoor in Prem Ratan Dhan Payo and Disha Patani in Radhe.

For Salman, it is not about the age, but about the story and acting. His fans adore him on screen, irrespective of whoever he is dancing with. And to be frank, if the movie gels and the chemistry is real, does it make a difference?

Rashmika Mandanna's Take

Rashmika, having left a very strong impression in South cinema as well as Bollywood, has not made any comments regarding the age-gap controversy thus far. However, as talented as she is, and as much charm as she possesses, fans are rooting for her to bring her very own sparkle to Sikandar. And let's not forget, if the film is good on emotions, action, and drama, the age gap will take a backseat.

Sikandar: What's the Buzz?

Starring Salman in a strong role, Sikandar is likely to be a high-octane action entertainer directed by A. R. Murugadoss. That the pairing is unusual is understandable, but if the characters and performances of the two work out, the people might well overlook the numbers and have a ball.

Ultimately, Bollywood is about entertainment, and as Salman explained—"Tumko kyun dikkat hai bhai?"

What's your take? Are you looking forward to watching Salman and Rashmika in Sikandar?