The 60-year-old actor faced backlash for his earlier comments, which some interpreted as pro-government.
Salman Khan’s latest social media activity has reignited debates about his stance on the ongoing student protests in India, which began after allegations of a NEET paper leak. The actor, known for his vocal support of social causes, posted a series of monochrome gym selfies on July 25, 2026, captioned with a phrase that many interpret as a rebuttal to critics who accused him of being “scared” to take a stronger stand. The message, Salman Khan darrrrr Gaya…. Hmmmm Jo darr gaya vo mar gaya,
is a reference to a iconic Bollywood dialogue from the 1975 film Sholey, which translates to Salman Khan got scared… Hmm… the one who gets scared is as good as dead.
Salman Khan’s Gym Response to Online Backlash
Earlier in the week, the actor had urged students to return home, stating, “The students are at top priority, educationally and security-wise, so they need not worry and have their parents worried for them. The Hon’ble Prime Minister has tweeted, and I am sure that he will take strict action against all those people who are responsible for this leak.” This statement drew sharp criticism, with some accusing him of downplaying the protests’ demands and aligning with government rhetoric.
Khan’s gym photos, which highlighted his “ripped” physique, were interpreted by fans and critics alike as a defiant response. The actor’s caption, a direct quote from Sholey, has been widely shared on social media, with users dissecting its meaning. Some see it as a nod to his resilience, while others argue it underscores his reluctance to engage with the protests’ political dimensions. It was such a peaceful movement, feel so sad that it had to take a violent turn. My heart goes out to the students and their families who were hurt,
Khan had written earlier, praising the students’ courageous and brave
efforts to demand educational reform.
Support for Protests and Criticism of Political Influence
Khan’s comments have placed him at the center of a broader conversation about celebrity activism in India. While he joined a growing list of Bollywood figures—including Hrithik Roshan, Alia Bhatt, and Naseeruddin Shah—in backing the students, his tone drew scrutiny. Critics pointed to his earlier statement that the protests should not be politicised,
and that the issue should not be hijacked politically,
a stance that some saw as a refusal to acknowledge the government’s role in the paper leak scandal. The fight was between the students and the education system and should not be hijacked politically,
he wrote, a line that sparked accusations of neutrality in the face of systemic issues.
Clashes between protesters and police intensified earlier in the week, with the CJP’s “Chalo Sansad” march drawing widespread attention. Despite the violence, Khan praised the students’ driven and motivated
approach, stating, This generation will make India proud.
His remarks were met with mixed reactions, with some applauding his support and others questioning his timing amid the unrest.
What Comes Next: Protests, Film Projects, and Public Perception
As the protests continue, Khan’s role remains a topic of discussion. While he has not explicitly addressed the controversy around his comments, his gym post has been widely interpreted as a veiled response to critics. The actor’s next move may depend on how the situation evolves, particularly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to “strict action” against those responsible for the leak. Meanwhile, Khan’s professional schedule remains busy: he is set to star in Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace, a war drama directed by Apoorva Lakhia, which has faced delays and geopolitical scrutiny.
The broader implications of Khan’s public statements highlight the challenges of celebrity activism in politically charged environments. As the debate over educational reform intensifies, his ability to navigate criticism while maintaining support for the students will likely shape his reputation in the coming weeks. For now, the actor’s cryptic message and gym photos serve as a reminder of the complex interplay between public figures, social movements, and media scrutiny in India.
Worth a look
