So the trailer of Sallu Ki Shaadi just dropped and it’s difficult to unsee the tacky visuals masquerading as a film. As the name suggests, the movie seems to take up the issue of massive national importance - actor Salman Khan’s imagined wedding. A T-Series film, it also borrows visuals from the Sooraj Barjatya directorial, Maine Pyar Kiya that marked Salman’s debut as a lead actor and turned him into an overnight heartthrob.
In the trailer, everyone is asking the same question, “Salman, when will you get married?” A news anchor raises the ‘pertinent’ question that most nosy aunties don’t fail to ask singles. It is followed by...Wait for it... Zeenat Aman and another female actor looking on with a puzzled expression.
The anchor alludes to the fact that many Bhai fans have taken a vow to stay unmarried till Salman Khan does not experience wedded bliss. What comes next will rock your world - men belonging to different religions manically chant in unison - Jab Tak Bhaijaan Shaadi Nahi Karenge, Hum Bhi Nahi Karenge. There’s also a squad of foreigners who chime in.
Of course, the actual Bhai is not a part of the film. Zeenat Aman who celebrated her 66th birthday recently was known to be ahead of her times for her bold choices. She seems like a misfit here and one can’t help but feel a little wistful.
The ‘Entertainer by Mohammad Israr Ansari’ also throws in some visuals of Dubai and someone mimicking Salman’s voice to announce “8 ko shaadi hai aur main aa raha hoon,” the film is scheduled to release on 8 December you see.
But as you already may be aware, anything with a reference to Bhai is lapped up! So this tribute to Salman Khan will be patronised by its own share of niche audience.
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)