Did Salman’s fan-following increase after 10 Ka Dum?

Salman Khan made his debut way back in 1989 with Maine Pyaar Kiya and ever since his popularity has only increased. But for around 6 years – between the start of the last decade (year 2000) to around 2006 – most of his films were box office disasters. A few didn’t even manage a face-saving opening at the box office.

Then Partner released in 2007 and the film was a runaway hit at the box office, still it was Govinda who stole the show and walked away with most of the accolades. 2008 was another setback with two back-to-back disasters in God Tussi Great Ho and Yuuvraaj. Heroes too didn’t do well.

But around this time, Salman made his television debut with 10 Ka Dum. A reality game show that was so popular that the actor returned for Season 2 with 21 more episodes! Most of those shows with popular celebrities and friends from the industry were tremendously entertaining. Infact, few episodes have great repeat value even now as they are still amongst the most watched videos on YouTube.

Salman was at his entertaining best in 10 Ka Dum. Witty, sweet, charming with style and attitude that only he can pull off. Wanted released in 2009 when 10 Ka Dum was on air and the rest as they say is history.

The kind of craze that he enjoys today is unparalleled. Not even the likes of Aamir or Shahrukh Khan command the same kind of craze with the masses. Was 10 Ka Dum responsible for Salman’s increase in popularity and fan-following? Or was it just the success of Wanted that worked in his favour? Tell us what you think in the comments section below.