The iconic 1989 film Maine Pyaar Kiya continues to hold a special place in cinematic history. Beyond its classic status, the movie also offers fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpses into the Bollywood of that era. In a 2015 interview, actress Bhagyashree, who achieved overnight stardom with her debut in this Sooraj Barjatya directorial, shared an anecdote that highlights Salman Khan’s principled stance on consent.
Bhagyashree recalled an incident during a promotional photoshoot in a Mumbai hotel where a prominent photographer, aiming for “hot, sizzling pictures,” instructed Salman to kiss her without her prior knowledge. The photographer’s suggestion was that Salman should proceed, as it was “just one shot.” However, Salman immediately questioned whether Bhagyashree had been asked for her consent. Upon learning she hadn’t, Salman refused the request, emphasizing that he would only proceed if she explicitly agreed.
This principled stand by Salman Khan, especially during a time when consent wasn’t always a focal point of discussion in the industry, is a significant revelation. Bhagyashree also reminisced about Salman’s presence at her wedding, noting that he was one of the few industry figures who attended, a testament to their lasting friendship.
Maine Pyaar Kiya is currently available for streaming on OTT platforms.