MUMBAI: The long-running feud between filmmaker Abhinav Kashyap and Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has resurfaced, with Kashyap recently referring to the actor as a gunda, a Hindi term for thug or goon. The Dabangg director has accused Salman of sabotaging his career and using bullying tactics within the film industry.

Released in 2010, Dabangg was directed by Kashyap and produced by Arbaaz Khan, Salman’s brother. The film was a massive box office success, cementing Salman’s status as a megastar and spawning a franchise. However, Kashyap did not return to direct the sequels, reportedly due to creative differences and personal conflicts with the Khan family. Over the years, he has occasionally hinted at these tensions, but his latest remarks represent a significant escalation.

According to Kashyap, instead of supporting him after the success of Dabangg, Salman and his family interfered with his professional commitments, making it difficult for him to work independently. He claims that these strong-arm tactics harmed his career trajectory.

This is not the first time Kashyap has criticized Salman. He has previously taken to social media and the press to voice similar concerns. However, his use of the term gunda has reignited public debate about Bollywood’s power politics and the struggles faced by independent filmmakers in an industry often dominated by star families.

Public reaction to his comments has been sharply divided. Critics of Salman, pointing to his controversial past including legal battles and allegations of unprofessional behaviour, have praised Kashyap for speaking out. Meanwhile, Salman’s loyal fanbase has dismissed the remarks, accusing the director of seeking attention or attempting to settle old scores. The controversy has quickly spread online, with hashtags such as # SalmanKhan and # AbhinavKashyap trending on the social media platform X.

Film trade analysts suggest that the renewed clash could once again highlight Bollywood’s reliance on star power, especially as the industry faces shifting audience preferences and ongoing criticism of nepotism.

As of now, neither Salman Khan nor his official team has issued a response. Sources close to the actor, however, claim that Kashyap is simply trying to stay in the limelight by raking up past grievances. Given Salman’s influence and his history of addressing controversies directly, an official statement or counteraction may follow soon.

Kashyap, who has largely kept a low profile since Dabangg, is reportedly working on new projects. Whether this controversy helps revive his career or further complicates his industry standing remains uncertain.