Although celebrated as larger-than-life action hero today, but the ’90s witnessed an extremely different version Salman Khan—a soft boy with a charming, boy-next-door appeal.

The ’90s hold a special place in the hearts of Salman Khan fans as the era showed an innocent, vulnerable, yet charismatic form of superstar. On his birthday, let’s dive into a nostalgic ride of unforgettable ’90s phase that made Salman Khan, the heartthrob of a generation

The Romantic Beginning:

Salman Khan started his acting career with a negative role in the 1988 hit Biwi Ho To Aisi. But, his role in Maine Pyar Kiya (1989) cemented his position as the quintessential romantic hero.

(Credit - Instagram/salmankhanloops_)

Innocent charm, expressive eyes, and effortless chemistry with the heroine, made Prem (character played by Salman in Maine Pyar Kiya) touch the hearts of Bollywood fans. The success of the film launched Salman into superstardom and established Prem as one of most beloved characters in Bollywood, even today.

The Iconic ‘Prem’ Persona:

The name ‘Prem’ is synonymous to Salman Khan in Bollywood. After Maine Pyar Kiya, Salman appeared as Prem seven times (Andaaz Apna Apna, Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!, Judwaa, Deewana Mastana, Biwi No.1, Sirf Tum, and Hum Saath - Saath Hain) in ’90s. The character Prem represented a boyish innocence with vulnerability that resonated well with audiences. Salman’s portrayal of Prem in Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! paired with Madhuri Dixit’s girl-next-door appeal created magic on screen, as the film is still considered as one of the biggest hits of Hindi cinema.

The Fashion Trendsetter

Despite performances, Salman’s ’90s soft boy era was also about redefining Bollywood’s fashion. Khan’s flawless style became a template for the youth. From his colourful sweaters in Maine Pyar Kiya to his denim-clad stylish look in Jeet (1996), Salman Khan became a fashion icon among youths. Probably, the most memorable onscreen look was his shirtless avatar in the iconic “O O Jaane Jaana” song from Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya (1998). This moment defined the beginning of Salman’s transformation into a fitness idol.

Melodious Music and Evergreen Hits

What sets apart ’90s era from other decades? It's definitely the unforgettable music. The films of Salman Khan had soundtracks that became instant hits, most of them are even cherished today. Songs like “Dil Deewana” (Maine Pyar Kiya), “Pehla Pehla Pyaar Hai” (Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!), and “O O Jaane Jaana” (Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya) are still considered as the anthems of love and romance. This ensured his dominance in the era of cassettes and radio playlists.

(Credit - Instagram/@the_90sbollywood)

The ’90s era remains a nostalgic chapter for fans and cinephiles. His charm was unpolished yet irresistible, his acting prowess was unrefined yet heartfelt, and his presence in the movies felt like a fresh spring morning. By the late ’90s, Salman began experimenting with his roles, marking a shift in his on-screen persona. However, this ’90s soft boy era remains unmatched, mostly because of simplicity and sincerity.

Here’s to the star whose soft boy period in the ’90s gave Bollywood some of its most iconic cinematic moments. As fans celebrate Salman Khan's birthday today, they also celebrate an era of innocence, romance, and evergreen music that made the ’90s memorable.