In the world of cinema, stardom is a rollercoaster ride—one moment you're ruling the box office, the next you're struggling for a hit. Even the biggest stars aren't immune. One such example is Salman Khan, whose decades-long career has seen its fair share of highs and deep lows.

In 2003, Salman delivered one of his most emotional performances in Tere Naam, a film that still lives in the hearts of his fans. But what followed was a string of flops that almost derailed his career. From Garv, Dil Ne Jise Apna Kaha, Lucky: No Time for Love, Shaadi Karke Phas Gaya Yaar, to God Tussi Great Ho—none managed to create magic at the box office.

Although he starred in successful multi-starrers like Baghban, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, Partner, and No Entry, Salman struggled to deliver a solo hit.

In 2009, just when critics were beginning to write him off, 'Wanted' hit the screens—and everything changed.

Directed by Prabhu Deva, Wanted paired Salman Khan with Ayesha Takia, an actress two decades younger. The duo struck unexpected gold. Audiences loved their chemistry, but more importantly, they loved Salman's action-packed avatar, something Bollywood hadn’t seen in him for years.

The film, made on a budget of ₹35 crore, went on to collect over ₹87 crore worldwide. It didn’t just bring Salman back—it redefined him. Wanted marked the beginning of the ‘mass hero’ era for Salman Khan, paving the way for mega-hits like Dabangg, Ready, and Kick.

While she didn’t stick around Bollywood for long, Ayesha Takia’s role in ‘Wanted’ became a milestone—not just in her career, but in Salman’s. Sometimes, all it takes is the right pairing at the right time to turn the tide.