Salman Khan’s grandfather was a top British-era officer; father Salim Khan once earned just Rs 400 as an actor

Before Salman Khan became one of India’s biggest stars, his father Salim Khan had already lived a life shaped by history, loss, and reinvention. Known today as one half of the legendary Salim-Javed duo, his journey began far from film studios. It started in colonial-era Indore, in a household closely tied to power. Few know that his early life combined privilege with profound personal hardship.Salim’s father, Abdul Rashid Khan, served as a senior officer in the Indian Imperial Police during British rule. Rising to the rank of Deputy Inspector General was rare for an Indian at the time, as colonial institutions largely favored British officers for top positions. His achievement reflected exceptional competence and trust. The family’s roots trace back even further. Salim later shared that his ancestors were Alakozai Pashtuns who migrated from Afghanistan in the nineteenth century. They initially served in cavalry units before moving into government roles and eventually settling in central India. Over time, the family became well-established in Indore’s administrative circles.Despite his respected background, Salim’s youth was far from easy. Born in 1935 in Indore, he lost his mother at a young age and his father during his teenage years. The emotional shock reshaped his formative years, and stability disappeared just when he needed it most.Academics were never his strongest area. Instead, he excelled in sports, particularly cricket. His talent on the field helped him continue his studies at Holkar Science College. He even trained as a pilot — a path that hinted at a very different future from the one he eventually chose.Encouraged by friends, Salim moved to Mumbai to try his luck in films. He began as an actor, taking on small roles and earning modest pay. His first break came with a role in Amarnath Ki Baraat, for which he earned Rs 400. After appearing in several projects, he realised that storytelling suited him far better than performing.His partnership with Javed Akhtar soon reshaped Hindi cinema. Together, they created landmark films such as Sholay, Deewaar, Zanjeer, and Don. These films introduced the “angry young man” archetype and transformed the tone of mainstream Hindi storytelling.