Dabangg Director Abhinav Kashyap Calls Out Salman Khan in Explosive Interview

By Mayur Shinde
Updated September 8, 2025 | 2 min read

Dabangg director Abhinav Kashyap has openly criticized Bollywood superstar Salman Khan and his family. He called Salman a “gunda” (goon) and said the actor is not really interested in acting.

Abhinav also accused the Khan family of controlling Bollywood and being vindictive toward those who disagree with them. He shared that his brother, Anurag Kashyap, faced similar problems while working with Salman. These strong remarks have sparked a lot of discussion in the film industry.

Allegations of Power and Control

According to media reports, Kashyap’s primary claim is that Salman Khan is less concerned with acting and more with the immense power that comes with his celebrity status.

In a no-holds-barred interview, he described the actor as an “ill-mannered” individual. The controversy deepened as Kashyap also brought Salman’s family into the conversation, calling them “vindictive.” He alleged that the family exercises control over the film industry and actively targets those who don’t align with their wishes.

Anurag Kashyap’s Past Experience

Adding another layer to the feud, Abhinav Kashyap revealed a similar ordeal faced by his brother, acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap. He stated that Anurag was mistreated and denied credit for his work on the film Tere Naam, a project he ultimately had to abandon.

Industry Reaction

These shocking claims have sent shockwaves across Bollywood, shedding light on the darker side of the industry’s power dynamics. While Salman Khan and his family have yet to publicly respond, the director’s bold statements have sparked widespread discussion among fans and industry insiders.

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FAQs
Who is Abhinav Kashyap?
Abhinav Kashyap is a well-known Indian director, best known for directing the 2010 blockbuster film, Dabangg, which starred Salman Khan.
What did Abhinav Kashyap say about Salman Khan?
Kashyap referred to Salman Khan as a "gunda" (goon) and the "father of the star system" in Bollywood, alleging that he is more interested in power than in acting.
What is the "star system"?
The "star system" in Bollywood refers to the practice where a few select actors hold immense power and influence over film projects, dictating everything from casting to production decisions.
Why is Anurag Kashyap's name mentioned?
Abhinav Kashyap revealed that his brother, Anurag Kashyap, also had a negative experience with Salman Khan's family while working on the film Tere Naam.
Have Salman Khan or his family responded?
As of now, there has been no public response from Salman Khan or his family regarding these specific allegations.
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By Mayur Shinde