In July 2025, ‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan’, directed by Kabir Khan and starring Salman Khan, marks its 10th anniversary. The film narrates the journey of Pawan, a devoted Hanuman follower, who helps Munni, a mute Pakistani girl lost in India, reunite with her family across the border. This heartwarming tale has resonated with audiences worldwide, earning both critical acclaim and commercial success.
Kabir Khan Reflects on the Film’s Legacy
At the I View World Film Festival, Kabir Khan expressed his gratitude for the enduring love ‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan’ continues to receive. He remarked, “It’s a film that never stops giving. I’ve just seen love for that film growing with each passing year.” This sentiment highlights the movie’s lasting impact on audiences and its relevance even a decade after its release.
Box Office Triumphs
Upon its release in 2015, ‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan’ set new benchmarks in the Indian film industry. The film grossed approximately ₹969 crore worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films of all time. Its success extended beyond Indian borders, with significant earnings in markets like Pakistan, the Persian Gulf, the United States, and China. In China, the film was released in 2018 under the title ‘Little Lolita’s Monkey Uncle’ and garnered over $48 million, showcasing its universal appeal.
Critical Acclaim and Awards
Critics lauded ‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan’ for its compelling narrative, strong performances, and heartfelt message. Bollywood Hungama rated it 4.5 out of 5 stars, calling it Salman Khan’s best movie to date. The Times of India praised it as Salman’s most daring film, awarding it 4 out of 5 stars. The film’s excellence was recognized at the 63rd National Film Awards, where it won Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. Additionally, it received four nominations at the 61st Filmfare Awards, including Best Film and Best Director.
Global Cultural Impact
‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan’ transcended cultural and national boundaries, resonating with audiences worldwide. In China, viewers drew parallels between the film’s narrative and the classic Chinese epic ‘Journey to the West’, enhancing its relatability. The movie’s themes of love, compassion, and unity struck a chord, leading to its successful run in various international markets.
Kabir Khan’s Recent Endeavors
Beyond reminiscing about ‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan’, Kabir Khan continues to explore diverse narratives. At the I View World Film Festival, he co-directed the anthology film ‘My Melbourne’ alongside Imtiaz Ali, Onir, and Rima Das. Khan’s segment, ‘Setara’, tells the story of an Afghan girl aspiring to play cricket amidst challenging circumstances. This collaboration offered Khan a unique experience, allowing him to engage with fellow filmmakers and present varied stories to audiences.
