Nobody can do it better than SRK says Salman Khan

But in the yet-to-be-aired episode of his reality show 10 Ka Dum, Salman heaped praise on the other Khan. The episode features Riteish Deshmukh and Govinda, who were promoting their film Do Knot Disturb.

Salman asked Riteish, who is known for his mimicking talent, to imitate someone, a source working on the sets of the show told DNA. After Riteish mimicked Shah Rukh, Salman complimented him and said: "When it comes to romantic scenes, Shah Rukh is outstanding. Nobody can do it better than Shah Rukh Khan. He has the intensity in his eyes and is utterly romantic."

Salman went on: "Professionally, Shah Rukh is simply great." DNA has a copy of the taped transcript of Salman's comments.

The source said that Salman knew that Riteish's favourite scene was from Shah Rukh's Dil Toh Paagal Hai, but he still asked him to imitate it.

Anita Basu, the producer of 10 Ka Dum, said: "Salman has been very gracious in his compliments about Shah Rukh. No snide remark was passed. Salman is a thorough professional who likes SRK's work and he acknowledged it when people asked his about SRK."

But an industry insider said just because Salman has complimented SRK's professionalism does not mean "they are best friends". "That cannot happen quickly as they have drifted apart. But never say never we have seen many professional rivalries wash away with time. As of now, let us wait and watch," he said.