Riding high on the success of her last Hindi film Animal, actress Rashmika Mandanna has bagged a coveted role opposite Bollywood heavyweight Salman Khan. Titled Sikandar, the film will be directed by AR Murugadoss and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala. This marks Rashmika's first collaboration with all three powerhouses of Indian cinema. Now, we all know Salman (aged 58) is no new to starring alongside young actresses in his movies, and Rashmika (aged 28) is the latest to join the bandwagon. However, she is not the superstar's youngest heroine to date. Sikandar: Did You Know Salman Khan’s Heroine Rashmika Mandanna Is 30 Years Younger Than Him?

For the unaware, the youngest heroine who has starred opposite Salman Khan is Saiee Manjrekar in Dabangg 3 (2019), with an age gap of 32 years. The actress played the role of Khushi Chautala in the third instalment of the franchise. As we know, the age difference between actors has always been debated in the film industry. The longstanding practice of casting older actors opposite much younger actresses in Indian cinema continues to spark debate. This trend raises questions about gender parity, on-screen representation and the portrayal of romantic relationships. Rashmika Mandanna in Sikandar! Actress To Collaborate With Salman Khan for the First Time in the Film Helmed by AR Murugadoss.

Salman Khan and Saiee Manjrekar in Dabangg 3

Salman Khan, Saiee Manjrekar (Photo Credits: YouTube)

Salman, in his career, has acted alongside many young female stars. Bhaijaan has been cast opposite Disha Patani (aged 31) in Radhe, then we have Pooja Hegde (aged 33) in Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan, and the list can go on. What are your thoughts on the prevalence of younger actresses paired with older film actors? Does it affect the portrayal of relationships on screen? Does it limit opportunities for older actresses? Share your views in the comments below.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 09, 2024 01:13 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).