This man always dreamed of being an actor. In the 1960s, he appeared in multiple films, yet couldn’t become a hero.

Bollywood is a dynamic and unpredictable industry where success is never guaranteed, even for those with strong family connections. One such story is that of legendary screenwriter Salim Khan and his son, superstar Salman Khan. While Salman went on to become one of the biggest stars in Indian cinema, his father faced several struggles before finding his true calling.

Born in November 1935, Salim Khan always dreamed of being an actor. In the 1960s, he appeared in multiple films, including Barsaat (1960), Police Detective, Teesri Manzil (1966), and Deewana (1967). However, he was often typecast in supporting roles and never got the opportunity to be a leading man. As his acting career stagnated, he was forced to take on minor and B-grade roles, some of which went uncredited. After years of struggle, Salim made a life-changing decision—he shifted his focus to screenwriting.

This decision transformed his career. Alongside Javed Akhtar, he formed the iconic Salim-Javed duo, which redefined Bollywood storytelling. The duo delivered legendary films such as Zanjeer (1973), Sholay (1975), Deewar (1975), Trishul (1978), and Don (1978), earning Salim Khan a place among Bollywood’s greatest writers.

Meanwhile, his son Salman Khan entered the film industry in 1988 with Biwi Ho To Aisi but became an overnight sensation with Maine Pyar Kiya (1989). Over the years, Salman has cemented his position as one of Bollywood’s biggest stars, earning from films, endorsements, television hosting, and his production house, SKF. With an estimated net worth of Rs 2900 crore, he continues to dominate the industry.

Despite their different paths, both Salim and Salman Khan have left an undeniable mark on Bollywood, proving that success comes to those who adapt and persevere.