Veteran screenwriter Salim Khan, father of Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, is expected to be discharged from Lilavati Hospital on Tuesday morning after spending nearly a month under medical care. The 90-year-old was admitted in mid-February due to age-related health complications and has since shown steady improvement, according to hospital sources.
Salim Khan was admitted on February 17 under the supervision of senior consultant Dr Jaleel Parkar. During his hospitalization, he underwent a diagnostic and interventional procedure known as Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA), performed by neurosurgeon Dr Nitin Dange. This advanced imaging technique is used to detect and evaluate cerebrovascular conditions such as aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs), and blockages that may lead to strokes.
Earlier in his treatment, Dr Parkar revealed that Salim Khan had suffered a minor brain haemorrhage. Despite the seriousness typically associated with such conditions, doctors indicated that the bleeding was minimal. A small medical procedure was conducted successfully to address the issue. Following the procedure, Salim was placed on ventilatory support as a precautionary measure. However, doctors remained optimistic about his recovery, noting that his condition was stable and improving steadily.
“Keeping his age in mind, recovery may take longer, but he is doing quite well,” Dr Parkar had stated at the time, reassuring well-wishers about the veteran writer’s progress. Over the weeks, his health improved sufficiently for doctors to plan his discharge.
Throughout his hospital stay, Salim Khan received frequent visits from family members and close associates. His sons — Arbaaz Khan and Sohail Khan — were regularly seen by his side, along with Salman Khan. The family’s strong presence reflected their close bond and concern for his recovery.
Prominent figures from the film industry also visited the veteran screenwriter. Among them were actors Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan, both of whom share a long-standing association with the Khan family. Salim Khan’s longtime friend and former screenwriting partner Javed Akhtar also paid a visit, highlighting the enduring respect and camaraderie within the industry.
Last week, Arbaaz Khan had already hinted at his father’s impending return home. Speaking briefly to the media during an event, he confirmed that Salim Khan’s condition had improved significantly and that he was on the path to recovery.
Salim Khan’s journey in the film industry dates back to the 1960s, when he initially pursued acting. Although he appeared in several films, including a supporting role alongside Shammi Kapoor in Teesri Manzil, his acting career did not achieve sustained success. This led him to shift focus toward screenwriting — a decision that would ultimately redefine Bollywood storytelling.
In the late 1960s, he partnered with Javed Akhtar to form the iconic screenwriting duo Salim-Javed. Together, they revolutionized Hindi cinema with powerful narratives and memorable characters. Their collaboration resulted in 24 films, of which 20 were major commercial successes. Some of their most celebrated works include Seeta Aur Geeta, Sholay, Deewar, Don, Kranti, and Mr India, films that continue to influence generations of filmmakers.
After their professional split in 1982, Salim Khan continued writing independently. His solo credits include films like Naam, Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya, and Auzaar, further cementing his legacy as one of Bollywood’s most influential storytellers.
As he prepares to return home, Salim Khan’s recovery marks a positive moment for his family, friends, and admirers across the film industry.