From Frightening Villain to Comforting Mentor: Shah Rukh Khan on 'Anjaam' Set
Gajaala Salmeen, who played the emotionally charged role of Pinky Chopda in the 1994 film *Anjaam*, offered a glimpse of Shah Rukh Khan’s off‑screen personality that starkly contrasted with his menacing on‑screen avatar. While shooting the film’s Mauritius segments, the young actress said Khan would constantly check on her, pulling her into a tight embrace and speaking in a soothing tone that made the set feel safe.
Salmeen told viewers that the villain’s ruthless actions in the storyline – which ultimately lead to the tragic death of her character – were purely fictional. In reality, Khan was attentive, patient, and often went out of his way to make her comfortable during long hours of filming that stretched from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.
One of the most memorable moments she recounted involved an unscripted stunt where Khan’s car slammed into hers. The scene was shot without any safety harness; Salmeen was thrown from the vehicle, experienced a brief surge of terror, yet emerged unharmed. Her recollection underscores Khan’s professionalism and the trust he inspired among the cast.
Though *Anjaam* earned only an average box‑office reception, its soundtrack, especially the song “Chane Ke Khet Mein,” continues to be celebrated across generations.
