Even after a decade, Sultan remains a favorite among sports dramas in Hindi cinema. The film is produced by Ali Abbas Zafar and starring Salman Khanfollowing the inspiring path of an underdog in the wrestling ring. Its appeal transcends akhada, with popular tracks like “Baby Ko Bass Pasand Hai” and “Jag Ghoomeya” adding to its charm. On the 10th anniversary of Sultan’s release, Ali shares memories of filming the film, Khan’s remarkable transformation, and whether a reunion with the star is possible.
Ali Abbas Zafar on the origins of “Sultan”
In an interview with Variety India, when asked about the genesis of the film, Ali shared, “The idea came from a one-liner story about a man who overcomes all odds and fights against his own ego. I’ve always been a big fan of sports dramas. I wanted to make a film that was grounded and earthy, a “desi” film as you say. So, we chose wrestling because it is a sport that has a long history in India and it is all about dirt, dirt, dirt, falling down, getting up, trying to fight your opponent and knock him down, and that is synonymous with life in a way.“
Ali Abbas Zafar on how Salman Khan said yes in 15 minutes
He further added, “Salman Khan was the only choice for the film. When I pitched the idea of the story to them, Aditya Choprahe said there was only one person who could play the role, Salman Khan. I wholeheartedly agreed. We decided that we would only make the film if Salman agreed. When we told Salman about the film, it took him a full 15 minutes to say, “I’m doing this.”
Ali Abbas Zafar talks casting Anushka Sharma opposite salman khan
When Anushka Sharma was asked about pairing up with Salman for the first time, Anushka Sharma, who had previously admitted that she found it intimidating to work with him initially, and how the initial awkwardness eventually wore off, said, “Pairing Alfa with Sultan was difficult as we wanted a fresh pairing. This is Sudan’s journey, but that journey is Alpha. What Anushka brings to the role is amazing. They are different from each other and I think the addition of opposites attracts some kind of equation. Anyone who doesn’t know Bhai well would find him intimidating. But once you get to know him, you realize that behind his toughness there is a very lovable person. When we were shooting the movie, by the end, everything went really smoothly because everyone knew each other so well. “
Ali Abbas Zafar talks possible fourth film with Salman Khan
Talking about the prospect of working with Salman for a fourth film, he shared, “Everyone has been telling us that we should work together. I think we will soon. Once we have the right story and script ready, we will come together and make something special.”