The star who bounced back

Although Salman's first commercial success was Maine Pyar Kiya, this star made his debut as a second lead in Biwi Ho To Aisi in 1988. He then went on to give four hits in a row – Baaghi, Sanam Bewafaa, Patthar Ke Phool and Kurbaan.

Even as these tremendously successful films left a mark at the box office, he made some serious mistakes and ended up giving at least half a dozen flops between 1992 and 1993. He bounced back with Andaz Apna Apna and Hum Aapke Hain Koun, the latter becoming one of the biggest grossers in the history of Hindi cinema.

A couple of flops followed after which came Karan Arjun and then another string of debacles. It was left to Sanjay Leela Bhansali's love saga Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam to salvage Salman's flagging career. It was where he met Aishwarya Rai and also manage to deliver a fantastic performance. Ever since there has been no looking back…

1988-2008: 61 movies released

Hits: 26

Maine Pyar Kiya, Baaghi, Sanam Bewafaa, Patthar Ke Phool, Kurbaan, Saajan, Andaz Apna Apna, Hum Aapke Hain Koun...!, Karan Arjun, Judwaa, Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya, Jab Pyaar Kisise Hota Hai, Bandhan, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Chori Chori Chupke Chupke, Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge, Hum Saath-Saath Hain: We Stand United, Tere Naam, Baghban, Garv: Pride and Honour, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, Maine Pyaar Kyun Kiya?, No Entry, Kyon Ki and Partner.

Average performers: 9

Biwi Ho To Aisi, Veergati, Auzaar, Jeet, Biwi No.1, Hello Brother, Har Dil Jo Pyar Karega, Kahin Pyaar Na Ho Jaaye and Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam.

Flops: 26

Suryavanshi, Ek Ladka Ek Ladki, Love, Jaagruti, Nishchaiy, Chandra Mukhi, Dil Tera Aashiq, Sangdil Sanam, Chand Ka Tukda, Majhdhaar, Khamoshi: The Musical, Jaanam Samjha Karo, Dulhan Hum Le Jayenge, Chal Mere Bhai, Yeh Hai Jalwa, Phir Milenge, Dil Ne Jise Apna Kahaa, Lucky: No Time for Love, Sawaan: The Love Season, Shaadi Karke Phas Gaya Yaar, Jaan-E-Mann, Baabul, Salaam-E-Ishq, Marigold: An Adventure in India, Saawariya and God Tussi Great Ho