‘WE WANT TO SHOW AAYUSH AS HE IS’

Set to introduce his brotherinlaw in Bollywood, actor Salman Khan talks about why he chose a romantic role for his new leading man

We don’t want any hate, we want respect and love from people,” says Salman Khan about the title change of his production LoveYatri: A Journey of Love. The actor, who launches his brother-inlaw Aayush Sharma in the film, adds that even the film’s previous title had no negative connotation. However, Salman changed it when some Hindu organisations opposed the title, as it rhymed with Navratri (festival). Now, as a filmmaker, he promises interesting content in the pipeline. Excerpts.

As a filmmaker, do you have to be more cautious?

If someone’s sentiment is going to be hurt, we don’t want to be a part of that. In my films, I can afford to take a stand. But if you’re making a love story and launching newcomers, why would we want to hurt anyone’s feelings? We want people to watch how much hard work Aayush and Warina (Hussain, female lead) have put in. And you can’t do that by hurting people. Once you see the film, you’ll know that it’s a wonderful film.

Do you look at a film from a different perspective when you produce one?

Whatever film it is, you need to be hands-on and take full responsibility. If you are not, then they will be like ‘Salman Khan ne marwa diya’. It’s a huge bojha that one carries on his shoulders. As a producer, you need to give everything for the people you’re launching. And that’s what we did.

Why do you think a love story is the right launchpad for Aayush?

This film has a lot of action. I’m sure he can do the same amount of action that any of the guys can. He’s sincere and dedicated. We could have launched him in an action role. But we want him to be what he is. He’s a soft-hearted, beautiful person. That’s how we wanted to portray him. He’s a respectful and cultured man, and an introvert, too. So, his personality should come through (in the film).

Would you ever produce content for OTT platforms?

We have four to five shows and web content lined up. By next year, we’ll roll. But that will not be like the stuff that’s coming out on these platforms. We want to use certification on the web as well. There are all kinds of stuff, and people are watching it, no problem. But I do have a problem with it not being censored. Kids from the age of five to 13-14 are watching this kind of stuff.

If I have children around, I’ll make sure that they don’t come close to this. Adults watching content with gaali galoch is fine; they’re all grown-ups. But if a four-year old kid watches it on tablets or phones, that’s not cool. There should be some responsibility.

Do you watch web content a lot?

My problem is that if I watch a show, then I have to finish it. I don’t know how to operate it; I get confused. I’m not good with technology anymore. My house help assisted me with it. This is my field, so I watch [web content]. From the rubbish stuff you see, you know what not to do. But in rubbish stuff also, you may find something amazing.

Can you stay without tech?

I’m a primitive man (smiles) .I can stay without technology anytime. I am not active on social media; (sister) Arpita is. So, if I’m with kids or painting, it’s gone up on social media. It’s a good medium if you use it wisely. For some idiots on it, they mess it up. But there are fans who want to connect and want to know about your work. I want to start tweeting more.