Making a place in Bollywood without industry guidance can be an uphill battle, but Pulkit Samrat says he was fortunate to have Salman Khan by his side during the early years of his career. The actor recently reflected on how the superstar’s words before the release of his debut film ‘Bittoo Boss’ helped him overcome anxiety and taught him an invaluable lesson about dealing with success and failure.In a conversation with Variety India, Pulkit also shared what he has learned from watching Salman work behind the scenes, revealing that the actor’s commitment to cinema and his humility continue to inspire him.
Salman Khan’s advice eased Pulkit’s debut jitters
Recalling the days leading up to the release of ‘Bittoo Boss’ in 2012, Pulkit admitted he was consumed by nervousness. Like any newcomer, he worried about how audiences would receive both the film and his performance.“I was incredibly anxious, wondering how the film and my performance would be received by the audience. Salman bhai just looked at me and said, ‘Pulkit, I am Salman Khan. Even I don’t have the guarantee of my next Friday. So, who do you think you are? What are you going to achieve by stressing about it?'”The actor said those few words instantly changed the way he looked at the uncertainty of the film industry. “It made me realize that if someone of Salman Khan’s stature cannot guarantee the box office success of his next film, I have absolutely no reason to carry that stress.”
Watching Salman work became a lesson in dedication
Pulkit said his biggest learning from Salman wasn’t limited to advice. Observing the superstar’s work ethic gave him a clearer understanding of what it takes to enjoy a long career in cinema.Contrary to the perception that Salman is laid-back, Pulkit described him as someone whose mind is constantly occupied with filmmaking.“He eats, sleeps, and breathes films 24/7. Even on a lucky day when he gets just three hours of sleep, he is constantly thinking about his projects, whether it’s spotting the perfect person for a character or brainstorming a massive action piece that the audience will love in the theaters.”Inspired by that level of commitment, Pulkit said he realised he would have to work much harder to build his own career.“Seeing that level of commitment made me realize that if I want to achieve even 50% of what he has, I need to work 500% harder. Since then, hard work has simply become inherent to me.”
The biggest takeaway lies beyond films
Over the years, audiences have often noticed shades of Salman Khan in Pulkit’s screen presence. However, the actor believes the most valuable lessons have come from observing Salman’s behaviour away from the camera. “The way he cares for his people is a massive learning experience.”Pulkit also admired the superstar’s bond with his family, especially his respect for his father, veteran screenwriter Salim Khan. “At the end of the day, he is still Salim sir’s son. He won’t even lift a finger without his father’s permission. That deep respect and unconditional love for family is something I constantly witness in his house, and it’s a quality I deeply admire and strive to emulate.”Pulkit Samrat was recently seen in Netflix’s ‘Glory’, which earned him appreciation from viewers. He also made a special appearance in Homi Adajania’s ‘Cocktail 2’.
