Released in 2016, It’s been 9 years since Salman Khan’s Sultan hit the big screen, and still stands tall as one of the most physically demanding and emotionally charged performances of his career. While audiences loved the powerful storyline, what truly stole the show was Salman’s jaw-dropping transformation, both physically and mentally.
Here’s a look at 5 reasons why Salman’s prep for Sultan remains iconic, and why it raised the bar:
1. Gained and Lost Massive Weight — In One Film!
Salman didn’t just bulk up for Sultan, he played both a young, lean wrestler and an older, heavier version of the same man. The body transformation was real, and visible on-screen. From rock-solid abs to a soft, worn-down physique, he physically mirrored Sultan’s journey of rise, fall, and redemption.
2. Learned Wrestling & MMA — With Real Techniques
This wasn’t just choreographed action. Salman trained in traditional kushti and modern MMA, working with actual fighters and coaches to master the craft. Every slam, hold, and lock looked authentic and it was. He didn’t fake the fight, he lived it.
3. Did Intense Desi-Style Training
No glam gym workouts here. Salman trained like a desi pehlwan flipping tires, climbing ropes, dragging weights, and working in muddy akharas. It was raw, real, and rugged, just like the world Sultan belonged to. The physical effort showed in every frame.
4. Looked Every Bit the Seasoned Pehlwan
From the gait to the gritty expressions, Salman embodied the soul of a Haryanvi wrestler. His accent, body language, and on-screen aura all spoke of a man who had lived the sport, not just acted it. It was a role where stardom took a backseat and the character led the way.
5. Maintained Emotional Depth Even in Fight Scenes
What made Sultan different from just another action flick was its heart. Salman didn’t just flex his muscles, he made us feel every fall, every regret, every comeback. Whether it was grieving the loss of a child or struggling with inner demons, he gave pain to a face, and made the fight personal.
As fans revisit Sultan on its 7th anniversary, Salman is already deep in prep for his next intense role in the much-anticipated Battle of Galwan, based on the real-life events in Galwan Valley. Known for pushing his limits, the actor has already begun military training for the role, diving into tactical drills and soldier-like discipline. If Sultan was about wrestling with life, this one’s about fighting for the nation.
