Salman Khan shot to overnight fame with Maine Pyar Kiya (1989). The Sooraj Barjatya directorial became one of the highest-grossing Indian films at the time. But the thunderous success of the film did not help Khan immediately as he had no work for several months after the release of the film.
Salman Khan, who recently hosted the International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA) in Abu Dhabi, broke down in tears as he reflected on his early days in the film industry. Salman said that he had no work following the success of Maine Pyar Kiya, claiming that his co-star Bhagyashree stole all the glory. He also thanked filmmaker Ramesh Taurani for rescuing his career.
At the IIFA, the Ek Tha Tiger (2012) actor said, "After Maine Pyar Kiya released, Bhagyashree decided she didn't want to work anymore, because she wanted to get married. Aur wo pura credit leke chali gayi (she took all the credit). For six months, I had no movie. And that's when a 'devta saman aadmi' (God-like man), Ramesh Taurani, entered my life.”
During his heartfelt speech, Khan also mentioned how Suniel Shetty gifted him a shirt and a wallet that he had been eyeing in a store but couldn't afford. He also hugged Boney Kapoor, thanking him for helping him restore his career with Wanted (2009).