‘Sikandar’ and the Stagnation of Salman Khan: A Star Power Formula That’s Losing Its Spark:

Bollywood has long thrived on superstition—and if Salman Khan and the makers of Sikandar had looked back at his filmography, they might’ve seen the warning signs. His earlier films centered on heart transplants—Hello Brother (1999) and Dil Ne Jise Apna Kahaa (2004)—were both box office failures. Sikandar follows the same theme and meets a similar fate, but the issues run deeper. With a weak plot, lackluster performances, and forgettable music, Sikandar reflects a troubling pattern in Khan’s recent career.

An Eroding Fan Base

Films like Radhe, Antim, and Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan have all underwhelmed audiences and critics. While Tiger 3 offered a temporary reprieve, Sikandar’s box office slump underscores a fundamental problem—Bollywood’s over-reliance on star power and its reluctance to prioritize quality storytelling. Even Khan’s loyal fans, once the core of his massive theatrical draws, are now voicing disappointment on social media. His signature style feels outdated, and his films, once events, now feel repetitive.

Viewer Fatigue Is Real

The digital era has shifted audience expectations. With a growing appetite for sharp narratives and strong performances, viewers are no longer swayed by big names alone. Salman’s formulaic approach—invincible hero, moral savior, romantic lead—is increasingly out of sync with what audiences want today. In contrast, stars like Shah Rukh Khan have adapted, choosing diverse roles in films like Pathaan and Jawan, successfully redefining their image for a new generation.

The Rise of Content-Driven Cinema

Over the last few years, especially post-COVID, audiences have become selective. High ticket prices and abundant OTT content mean viewers want value for their money. South Indian cinema now delivers better action, production quality, and innovation—areas where Bollywood once had a monopoly. Telugu and Tamil films have filled the space once ruled by Khan's mass entertainers. Meanwhile, newer Bollywood offerings like Animal, Stree 2, and Chhaava have thrived thanks to original storytelling and dynamic execution.

Salman’s Creative Stagnation

Unlike his contemporaries, Salman Khan has shown little interest in creative reinvention. He sticks to roles built around his persona, rarely challenging himself or collaborating with fresh talent. This unwillingness to evolve has made his once-successful formula feel stale. The risk-averse choices and lack of narrative experimentation are becoming a liability in an industry where reinvention is critical to survival.

A Crossroads Moment

Despite Sikandar crossing ₹150 crore, the underwhelming post-release buzz suggests it’s time for a serious re-evaluation. Initial numbers alone no longer determine a film’s success. Sustained traction depends on quality. Salman Khan’s brand power is still immense, but without meaningful reinvention, it’s losing relevance fast.

The verdict from the audience is clear: storytelling matters more than stardom. If Salman continues to recycle the past, Sikandar may not just be a flop—it could mark a tipping point in his career. Reinvention isn’t just desirable; it’s necessary.