Salman Khan's Childhood Friend Master Raju Opens Up About Star's True Nature
In a rare and candid revelation, Master Raju, the childhood friend of Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, has shed light on the actor's personal life, describing him as a kind-hearted individual who often follows his heart rather than his head. Raju Shreshtha, popularly known as Master Raju, recently shared intimate details of their long-standing friendship, which began in Mumbai's Bandra neighborhood during their formative years.
A Friendship Forged in Childhood
Master Raju recounted how he and Salman Khan grew up together in Bandra, engaging in simple activities like cycling and skating practice. "I know Salman Khan much before his film 'Baaghi'. We both come from Bandra. We used to cycle together, and when he was preparing for 'Patthar Ke Phool', he would practice skating at Bandstand while holding onto my bicycle carrier," Raju revealed in an interview.
He emphasized that their bond predates Salman's stardom, stating, "I am friends with him from the time he was nothing. He has been very nice and kind and very misunderstood. He is a very nice man." Raju also mentioned that Salman later helped him secure roles in films like 'Baaghi' and 'Chal Mere Bhai', showcasing their enduring connection.
The Shift in Dynamics with Fame
As Salman Khan's career skyrocketed, Raju noticed a change in their interaction. He began addressing his friend more formally, switching from "Salman tu" to "Bhai aap" in public settings. When Salman questioned this change, Raju explained, "You have become a mega star and if I call you 'Salman tu', then you will tell Shera not to let me in next time."
Raju reflected on their past intimacy, saying, "We used to talk about anything. Salman and I have taken baths naked, but I don't expect this today, he is a big star today." He expressed concern that being too close now might lead others to label him as a sycophant.
Emotional Turmoil During Legal Battles
Master Raju also touched upon Salman Khan's stressful period during the 1998 blackbuck poaching case. "Yes, he was stressed, but on the face of it, he was not showing, but the environment around him was stressful," Raju recalled. He disclosed that a significant portion of Salman's earnings was directed towards legal fees and hiring prominent lawyers.
"He had told me that a big chunk of his earnings was going in this. He has always said that he is innocent and to prove that he had to spend so much money and go through so much stress," Raju added, highlighting the financial and emotional toll of the case.
Unrestrained Emotions and Past Outbursts
Describing Salman as "happy go lucky" and "clean at heart," Raju admitted that the star's lack of calculation has often landed him in controversies. "Salman has never had control over his emotions. Sometimes he would go and hurl abuses while standing under somebody's building. He shouted while standing under his ex-girlfriend's building, he would beat up someone so he didn't control his emotions," Raju revealed.
While not specifying the incident, this is believed to refer to Salman Khan's reported altercation outside ex-girlfriend Aishwarya Rai's home after their breakup in 2002. Raju defended Salman, stating, "He is a very sweet man. He doesn't work from mind. He works from his heart."
A Portrait of Contradictions
Master Raju's account paints a complex picture of Salman Khan—a superstar cherished by friends for his generosity and authenticity, yet prone to emotional outbursts that have fueled public scrutiny. Their friendship, rooted in shared childhood experiences, offers a unique glimpse into the human side of a Bollywood icon, revealing both his vulnerabilities and his unwavering loyalty to those from his past.
