Salman on Ash and Having a Baby

Salman Khan may consistently depict the consummate hero on screen, but his behaviour in the real world has been occasionally villainous. From the alleged shooting of a specimen of the endangered chinkara to accusations of him mowing down a pavement-dweller while intoxicated, the Dabangg star has earned a somewhat dubious reputation.

But what has also tarnished the Maine Pyar Kiya star's image to some extent has been his turbulent relationship with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Yes, it may have occurred over 20 years ago, but one can still hear murmurs about the torrid affair. To say the two stars had a love-hate rapport would be putting it lightly. And as expected, the media continues to grill him on the subject from time to time. 

Why, only on Wednesday, Jan 24th, 2024, India TV’s Aap ki Adalat asked Salman point blank about his attitude towards Ash. But calm and composed came the Ek Tha Tiger’s reply, “So many years have gone by. I’m very happy that she’s married to Abhishek.” Yes, it is a comment that exudes goodwill and it goes on, “I think Abhishek is a great guy... (and she has) married in to a great family and they are very happy together.”

In case anyone is still not convinced about Salman’s true intent, here comes the clincher emanating from his lips, “This is the best thing that any ex-boyfriend would want.” This statement has a “no-strings-attached” air to it. But strings were more than attached at one point – heartstrings. From the time love struck during their pairing in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam in 1998 to their messy split-up in 2002, rumours of recurring acrimony abounded. 

Lest one forget, Ash showed up at the 2000 Filmfare Awards with her arm in a brace and shades barely concealing a black eye. Although she publicly attributed these injuries to a fall, her appearance only fanned the public’s grievous doubts that all was not well. These misgivings were finally confirmed when the Taal star came clean to the media about being the subject of physical and emotional abuse at Salman’s hands.

Though goes the old adage, “time heals all wounds”, Salman has not been spotted rubbing shoulders with his old flame since her marriage 17 years ago. However, he apparently maintains a fair degree of cordiality with her hubby and is seen warmly greeting him at events and functions. And although the Bodyguard has had his fair share of high profile relationships, he seems to get cold feet whenever talk of marriage arises.

However, although Salman may shy away from the role of spouse, he apparently has a paternal side to him. Indeed, he recently revealed that he hopes to be a father to a biological child. And how might he realise this wish? Well, by using a surrogate mother, no less. A major hurdle in this quest however, is the tricky new amendments to surrogacy laws in India. And as the courts will attest, Salman is not above the law. Well, at least, not entirely.