When Salman Khan was shocked by dad Salim’s second marriage to Helen: ‘I can ‘t bear…’

Salim Khan is widely acknowledged as one of the most influential scriptwriters in the Hindi film industry. Alongside his long-time creative collaborator Javed Akhtar, he crafted a series of landmark films that transformed mainstream cinema. Their partnership produced unforgettable classics such as Zanjeer, Sholay, Deewar and Don, stories that continue to shape popular culture decades later.

While his professional achievements earned admiration, his private life unfolded with equal intensity. He initially tied the knot with Sushila Charak, who later became known as Salma Khan. Their marriage was blessed with five children — Salman Khan, Sohail Khan, Arbaaz Khan, Alvira Khan Agnihotri and Arpita Khan Sharma. However, the film fraternity was taken by surprise when Salim chose to enter into a second marriage with the celebrated dancer and actress Helen. The decision stirred conversations across the industry and deeply affected the family.

In an earlier conversation with Filmfare, Salman reflected on that challenging chapter of his childhood. He revealed that his mother experienced significant emotional pain following his father’s remarriage, yet she handled the situation with dignity and restraint.


As a young boy, he found it extremely distressing to witness her sorrow, especially during moments when she would wait late into the night for her husband to return home. "I can’t bear to see her unhappy. She was very hurt when my father married again; I’d hate it when she’d wait up for him to come home..." she said.

Over time, however, circumstances began to change. Salim reassured his children that his affection and commitment toward their mother remained intact and that his presence in their lives would never diminish.

Salman admitted that adjusting to the new family dynamic was not easy, particularly at the tender age of ten. Acceptance came gradually, and what once felt uncomfortable slowly transformed into familiarity. Today, Helen is regarded as an integral member of the household. She regularly participates in significant family gatherings, including the recent celebration marking Salim and Salma’s sixty-first wedding anniversary. Salim has also shared that Salman shows equal affection to both women; whenever he purchases a present for his mother, he thoughtfully ensures that Helen receives an identical gesture of love