Salman Khan held veteran actor at knife point for scene, left him bleeding: 'Main kabhi nahi bhoolunga'

In the glamour of Bollywood, danger often feels scripted. But for veteran actor Ashok Saraf, a dramatic knife scene with Salman Khan turned unexpectedly real—and left a mark that he says he’ll never forget. In a recent conversation with Radio Nasha Official, Saraf opened up about a harrowing moment while filming the 1992 action film Jaagruti. Known widely for his comedic timing and decades of celebrated performances, Saraf played against type as a villain in the Salman Khan-starrer. But stepping into a negative role nearly cost him more than just comfort—it nearly cost him his life.

'Main kabhi nahi bhoolunga'
Recounting the incident, Saraf said the scene involved Salman Khan pressing a real knife to his throat. “He was holding my throat with a knife and it was a real knife. Uski jo nok hoti hai vo kaat ke gayi aise…” he recalled. As the scene progressed and lines were delivered, Saraf tried to subtly loosen himself from Salman’s grip. But the intensity of the scene led to too much pressure.

“Salman zor se daba rahe the and then I said, ‘Dheere se dabaao, katt raha hai yahan par’,” Saraf recounted.

Despite voicing concern, the scene went ahead. Later, Saraf discovered a deep cut on his throat. “Agar yahan ki nass katt jaati toh hum udhar hi… Main kabhi nahi bhoolunga,” he said. Reflecting further, Saraf added, “I don’t know if Salman even remembers. Aise aadmi kisi ko yaad nahi rehte, bhool jaate hain.”

Jaagruti, directed by Suresh Krissna, featured Salman Khan alongside Karisma Kapoor, Pankaj Dheer, Shiva Rindani, and Prem Chopra. The film had a lukewarm reception at the box office but remains memorable, at least for Saraf, for far more visceral reasons.

Despite the incident, Saraf and Khan went on to share screen space in several other films including Karan Arjun, Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya, and Bandhan, showcasing an enduring professional bond that rose above one misstep.

The Legendary Career of Ashok Saraf
Ashok Saraf, one of India’s most respected and decorated actors, has spent decades making audiences laugh and cry. From Marathi cinema’s golden comic quartet to memorable roles in Hindi films like Yes Boss, Joru Ka Ghulam, and Singham, his range is wide and beloved.

In 2025, Saraf was awarded the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, a well-deserved recognition of his contribution to Indian cinema and theatre. His earlier accolades include the Maharashtra Bhushan, Filmfare Marathi Lifetime Achievement Award, and eleven Maharashtra State Film Awards.

Salman Khan's Slate Remains Full
While the 1992 incident seems etched in Saraf’s memory, Salman Khan may have long moved past it. The superstar is currently immersed in a busy lineup of high-profile projects. After his latest release Sikandar (2025), directed by AR Murugadoss, he is set to appear in Kick 2, the much-awaited Tiger vs Pathaan, Pawan Putra Bhaijaan, and Battle of Galwan, where he plays a patriotic soldier.

Also in the pipeline are No Entry 2, Dabangg 4, Wanted 2, and an untitled action project with Atlee—possibly featuring Kamal Haasan.