‘He is like my father’: Salman Khan calls Dharmendra his ultimate fitness inspiration; hopes for his swift recovery

Salman Khan has always inspired many of his fans over the years with his fitness and larger-than-life aura. But have you ever wondered who inspired Khan himself? Who did he look up to long before he became Bollywood’s ultimate fitness icon?

During a recent media interaction ahead of his ‘Da-Bangg Tour’ in Qatar, the 'Ek Tha Tiger' surprised everyone by revealing the name of the man who shaped his early fitness dreams, and its none other than the legendary veteran actor Dharmendra.

See More: Dharmendra Passes Away: Bollywood's 'He-Man' leaves a huge void in the industry; Hema Malini, Esha Deol and others reach crematorium

Salman Khan names Dharmendra as lifelong inspiration

In the video doing rounds on social media, the 'Sultan' star is asked about the source of his early fitness motivation. Without hesitation, he responds that Dharmendra has always been his ultimate role model.

Khan shared, “Mere aane se pehle ek hi shakhs the, aur woh hain Dharam ji.” (Before I came, there was only one man, and that is Dharam ji.)

See More: Dharmendra passes away at 89 in at his residence in Mumbai, Karan Johar posts: 'An end of an era'

Salman Khan on his deep bond with Dharmendra

“He is like my father, that’s the end. I love that man and I just hope that he will come back,” he said, adding emotion to every word. His touching statement has struck a chord with fans, especially at a time when many are praying for Dharmendra’s good health.

Dharmendra earlier spoke lovingly about Salman

What makes this relationship even more beautiful is that Dharmendra too has never held back his affection for Salman. When the veteran star once appeared as a special guest on one of the seasons of ‘Bigg Boss’, he openly spoke about the bond they share. He said, "Salman is my son. I have three sons - all three are emotional, strong-willed, and straightforward.” With a playful smile, he then added, "But he takes after me a little more. He has a colourful personality and, like me, he loves to dance."

See More: Dharmendra health update: An ambulance spotted leaving the actor's house, security tightens at Juhu cremetorium

Dharmendra continues recovering at home after hospitalisation

Dharmendra was discharged from Breach Candy Hospital on 12 November after treatment, and is now recovering at home. Salman was earlier spotted visiting him at the hospital, which once again shows how close they are.

An official statement from Sunny Deol’s team shared, “Mr. Dharmendra has been discharged from the hospital and will continue his recovery at home. We kindly request the media and the public to refrain from any further speculation and to respect his and the family’s privacy during this time. We appreciate everyone’s love, prayers, and good wishes for his continued recovery, good health, and long life. Please respect him because he loves you.”


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