Renowned filmmaker AR Murugadoss, who has helmed blockbusters with some of India’s biggest stars, has revealed that directing a film with a superstar like Salman Khan, his collaborator in the forthcoming action flick Sikandar, demands a delicate balance. Murugadoss admitted that staying entirely faithful to a script becomes tricky when catering to the expectations of a massive fanbase.

“You can’t make a regular film with a superstar. It’s about giving the fans what they want—those larger-than-life moments—which means you can’t always be 100 per cent true to the original vision,” he said speaking to PTI.

Murugadoss, a veteran of South Indian cinema, has worked with titans like Rajinikanth (Darbar), Vijay (Sarkar, Kaththi, Thuppakki), Suriya (Ghajini), Ajith Kumar (Dheena), Mahesh Babu (Spyder), and Chiranjeevi (Stalin). Now, after steering Aamir Khan to box-office glory with Ghajini, he’s teamed up with Salman Khan for Sikandar, set for an Eid release on 30 March 2025. The director stressed that superstars, with their unwavering dedication to their followers, shape the filmmaking process. “They’re passionate about maintaining and growing their stardom. As directors, we learn from their commitment,” he noted.

Sikandar, tailored for Salman’s ardent supporters, promises to differ from his past outings. “It’s got unique elements,” Murugadoss shared. “Like Ghajini had a tender love story, this one features a heartfelt husband-wife narrative.” Beyond the high-octane action fans crave, the film carries a poignant message about family. “In today’s rush, people barely spend time with loved ones—parents, friends. This commercial entertainer subtly reminds us to cherish those bonds,” he explained.

The collaboration with Salman traces back to 2014, when Murugadoss, then shooting Holiday with Akshay Kumar, met Khan on Madh Island. “I told him I wanted to work together, and he said the same,” the Chennai-based director recalled. Years later, producer Sajid Nadiadwala tapped Murugadoss for a fresh script, deeming Salman ideal for the lead. After months of development, a 30-minute narration at Salman’s Galaxy apartment sealed the deal. “He stepped out for a smoke, then asked if I’d adapt to his 2 pm-to-2 am schedule. I knew he was hooked,” Murugadoss chuckled.

Directing Salman wasn’t without its challenges. “We’d often disagree on scenes, so we’d shoot both versions and settle it in the edit,” he said. The cast, including Rashmika Mandanna as the female lead, brings depth to the tale. Addressing their age gap, Murugadoss justified, “The story explains his late marriage—it fits.” Kajal Aggarwal, Sathyaraj, and Prateik Babbar round out the ensemble.

Juggling Sikandar with Madharasi (starring Sivakarthikeyan), Murugadoss faced logistical hurdles. “Rain delayed Madharasi’s schedules, so I asked for a pause to wrap Sikandar first,” he said. With 20 days left on Madharasi, slated for a 2025 release, the director’s knack for managing superstar-driven projects shines through once more.

The much-anticipated dance track “Sikandar Naache” has officially been released, generating excitement as it marks the promotional lead-up to Salman Khan’s upcoming film, Sikandar, set to debut during the festive Eid celebrations. This energetic number features Bollywood sensations Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna, who light up the screen with their captivating chemistry and exuberant dance moves.

The song is a vibrant creation from the talented musical duo JAM8 and Siddhant Miishhraa, known for their catchy beats and upbeat compositions. It has been masterfully choreographed by Ahmed Khan, who integrates striking elements from Dabke, a timeless Levantine folk dance characterized by rhythmic stomping and dynamic line or circle movements. This infusion of cultural dance sets “Sikandar Naache” apart, promising an exhilarating visual experience for audiences.

In a delightful addition, the production features a group of skilled dancers from Turkey who join Salman and Rashmika in a stunning display of synchronized choreography, further enhancing the song’s appeal. The catchy vocals of Amit Mishra, Akasa, and Siddhant Miishhraa enrich the track, making it a must-listen for fans eager for a festive anthem.

In a related buzz, Bollywood superstars Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan were recently spotted visiting Aamir Khan, igniting speculation among fans regarding a potential sequel to the beloved comedy classic Andaz Apna Apna. The meeting has left many eagerly wondering what collaborative projects the iconic trio might be pursuing next.

Sikandar, directed by renowned filmmaker AR Murugadoss—who is celebrated for his successful films like Ghajini and Holiday—has undergone a gruelling 90-day shooting schedule across diverse locations including Mumbai and Hyderabad. As Salman Khan’s first major theatrical release in over a year, the film has generated significant anticipation.

The narrative unfolds with Tamil actor Sathyaraj portraying the main antagonist, adding depth to the film’s storyline. The ensemble cast also brings together notable talents such as Kajal Aggarwal and Prateik Babbar. Sikandar is set to grace the big screen on March 28, perfectly timed to coincide with the joyous Eid-al-Fitr celebrations, ensuring a festive cinematic treat for fans eagerly awaiting its release.

The much-anticipated Bollywood superhero film Krrish 4, starring Hrithik Roshan, has hit another roadblock as director Siddharth Anand and his banner Marflix have exited the project. Reports indicate that the film’s budget, reportedly touching ₹700 crore, has made it difficult for production houses to move forward with the project.

Adding to the uncertainty, Rakesh Roshan, who directed the previous installments of the Krrish franchise, has decided to step away from directing the film, choosing to “pass on the baton” to a new director.

Production struggles continue

Krrish 4 has faced multiple delays over the years, and with the exit of Siddharth Anand, the situation has become even more complicated. Hrithik Roshan, who had wanted Anand to direct, is now left looking for a new team to take the project forward.

Although there are reports suggesting that the film’s ₹700 crore budget is the reason for the hurdles, another source has denied these claims, stating that the “astronomical figures doing the rounds are completely untrue.”

New production plans in motion

While Marflix will no longer be part of the film, FilmKraft, the production house owned by the Roshan family, is reportedly looking for a new studio to back the film. With no director or confirmed production house in place, it remains to be seen how and when the film will move forward.

For now, Krrish 4 remains in limbo, with fans eagerly waiting for an official update on its future.