Rajkumar Santoshi: I want to give Salman Khan a challenging role, something he has not done before – Exclusive! – Times of India

Rajkumar Santoshi and Salman Khan are all set to reunite for the actor’s docu-series, which is under production right now. Santoshi has always considered Salman his lucky mascot, even though they’ve only done one film together, the iconic ‘Andaz Apna Apna’. But, Salman has appeared in cameo roles in two other films helmed by Santoshi – ‘Phata Poster Nikla Hero’ and ‘Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani’.

Santoshi, who recently shot for the docu-series feels that Salman Khan’s legacy centres around the fact that he is a role model to youngsters and he’s someone who encourages the youth to stay away from drugs. Santoshi appreciates the fact that Salman has always asked young people to focus on a healthy lifestyle and the right way to fitness. Santoshi adds, “He is a role model for many, including my son Ram, who has worked with him on two films ‘Tubelight’ and ‘Bharat’.”

Salman and Santoshi’s rapport goes back to 1994, when they first worked with each other in ‘Andaz Apna Apna’. Santoshi says, “We share a very warm relationship. Salman and I have mutual respect for each other. We enjoy each other’s company and I have high regards for his family, too.”

Speaking about his plans to make an ‘Andaz Apna Apna’ sequel, Santoshi says, “My script is ready, some final touches are needed, but it has to be with a new cast, which will happen a little later.”

While Salman may have worked with Santoshi in the two cameo roles for his movies, they’ve haven’t really done a full-fledged project for 27 years. Santoshi is hopeful and excited about teaming with Salman again. He says, “I am really looking forward to working with Salman again. He is an actor with a high potential and that has not been exploited in the recent past. I want to give him a really challenging character to play, which he has not done before.”