Bollywood actress Sonali Bendre recently opened up about an emotional chapter of her life, recounting the unexpected support she received from superstar Salman Khan during her cancer treatment in New York.
In a candid conversation with ANI, Sonali reflected on her evolving relationship with Salman Khan — from a playful co-star during Hum Saath Saath Hain to a genuinely caring friend during one of the toughest phases of her life. While the two did not share a particularly close bond during the shooting of their 1999 family drama, Sonali said she was taken aback by Salman’s concern years later when she was undergoing treatment for cancer abroad.
“Salman is like a child, and everything about him is to the extreme — even his care and concern,” Sonali said. “The same person who used to make faces at me from behind the camera came all the way to New York — not once, but twice — just to check if I was doing okay.”
She recalled how Salman not only visited but also reached out to her husband, filmmaker Goldie Behl, ensuring they had the right medical support. “He asked, ‘Are you sure you’ve got the right doctors? You should speak to these doctors too,’ and even shared contacts. He was so invested and wanted to ensure everything was being done correctly.”
According to Sonali, Salman took on the role of an elder from the film fraternity, going above and beyond to offer guidance and reassurance. “Once he was convinced that we had chosen the best option available at the time, he was calm. But in doing so, he showed how sensitive and caring he truly is,” she added. “I’ve had my issues with him, but I’ve grown to appreciate that side of him.”
Salman and Sonali’s on-screen chemistry in Hum Saath Saath Hain had left a lasting impression on fans. Though they haven’t appeared in many films together since, their off-screen bond appears to have deepened through personal experiences.
On the professional front, Salman Khan is gearing up for his next action film alongside Sanjay Dutt and has a cameo in the Saudi Arabian film 7 Dogs. Sonali Bendre is yet to announce her upcoming projects.
Sources By Agencies
