 April 10: Bollywood film industry pundits say an estimated Rs 100
crore is at stake on actor Salman Khan who was sentenced to five
years' rigorous imprisonment in the black buck poaching case today
by a Jodhpur court in Rajasthan.
Salman is currently shooting for six films, including big budget
banners such as `Babul, `Jaaneman', `Salaam-e-Ishq', and `Marigold',
which is an international venture. The star is also shooting for his
brother Sohail Khan's as yet untitled home production.
Trade analysts say the verdict against Salman puts at risk not only
the estimated Rs 75 crore invested in these films, but also another
Rs 25 crore in advertisements and promotions that the actor is
currently endorsing.
Film analyst, S Kumar Mohan says, “"the court verdict would
certainly come as a blow for the producers in which Salman is acting
and film production would be hampered.”
"The verdict is indeed shocking and the punishment was too harsh"
said Mohan adding, "this should not affect the career of Salman,
since he is an established Bollywood star with a massive fan
following.”
Film producer Ashok Pandit said Salman was a celebrity and was
therefore paying a price for his status. "The punishment is too
harsh and I am sure he got involved without knowing that he was
committing a crime. We all have sympathy for him but we have to
respect the verdict as judiciary is supreme," he said.
Film maker Mahesh Bhatt said "No one was above law and had to obey
the judiciary". However, he said, Salman should file an appeal
against the verdict as every accused has a right to do so.
Related stories:
 Salman
gets 5 yrs RI, sent to Jodhpur jail
 Salman
Khan gets a year in prison |
