Choreographer Shabina Khan, who is widely recognised for her association with Salman Khan and films like Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, has credited the superstar for playing a significant role in shaping her professional journey. In an exclusive conversation, Shabina spoke about how Salman has been her mentor and inspiration, revealing why she considers him nothing less than an angel in her life.
For Shabina, her association with Salman goes beyond work and choreography. She admires his generosity, his charitable initiatives, and the way he extends support to people. Sharing how his actions have inspired her personally, she revealed that she has also started a foundation and actively contributes to charity. She explained that watching Salman do so much for others made her believe that if he could make a difference in people’s lives, she could also take a step towards helping those in need.
Calling Salman extremely dear and important to her, Shabina said she looks up to him as her angel. She also recalled how his association brought her recognition in the film industry. According to her, people began noticing her work after Sooraj Barjatya offered her an opportunity in Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, followed by Salman giving her songs to choreograph. His trust in her work helped establish her credibility, and people in the industry began recognizing her as someone who knew her craft.
She further explained that she is a reserved person who does not socialise much or attend industry parties. For her, work has always been the priority. When she is on a set, she gives her 100 per cent, but once the work is over, she prefers going home rather than being part of social gatherings or industry groups. She shared that she does not have many friends in the industry and that her professional relationships are largely built through her work. Despite keeping a low profile, she never faced a shortage of opportunities, something she attributes to the recognition and respect she received through Salman and Sooraj Barjatya.
Shabina also expressed how proud she feels to be recognised as Salman Khan’s choreographer. She acknowledged that the superstar has worked with several choreographers over the years, but being associated with him and having her name identified with his songs is something she genuinely cherishes.
Shabina Khan on Salman Khan’s Working Style and Their Long Association
During the conversation, Shabina was also asked about Salman’s approach to choreography, particularly whether he follows the steps taught to him or shares his own suggestions and changes them according to his style.
Responding to this, she clarified that she could only speak about her personal experience working with him and could not comment on his equation with other choreographers. Having worked with Salman since her assistant days, she has closely observed his dancing style and working habits over the years.
Recalling her experience from films like Judwaa and Hello Brother, she revealed that Salman has never been someone who attends lengthy dance rehearsals. According to Shabina, the team would generally show him the choreography, and he would understand the steps with minimal rehearsal. Sometimes, they would demonstrate the choreography at a faster pace before he got ready for the shot.
She further shared that even today, despite having worked together for so many years, Salman treats her in much the same way. Interestingly, she still feels like his assistant whenever she is on set with him. Her experience of working as an assistant with several actors has also helped her develop a good rapport and understanding with them, making it easier for everyone to communicate and work comfortably.
Why Shabina Khan Feels She Is in Safe Hands with Salman Khan
Speaking about Salman’s distinctive dancing style, Shabina explained that he has his own body language and knows exactly what works for him and what his audience enjoys watching. She recalled that even during the earlier days, when choreographers like Masterji would create the choreography, Salman would sometimes suggest changing the style to suit his own movements.
According to her, Salman understands his audience and knows how to make a song memorable. She believes that his screen presence, dancing style and connection with audiences are among the reasons he continues to enjoy such a special place in people’s hearts. Calling him a legend, she said that Salman has been entertaining audiences for decades while maintaining his own distinctive style.
Shabina also spoke about the superstar’s charitable work, pointing out that many people may not even be aware of the extent to which he helps others. She believes that several families and careers have benefited from his support, yet he continues to remain the same person without making a show of his good deeds.
Explaining why she feels so comfortable working with him, Shabina revealed that she prepares multiple choreography options rather than limiting herself to one set of steps. She usually creates two, three or even four variations and then asks Salman to see what she has prepared. He chooses the steps he likes and performs them in his own style.
She believes that whichever hook step Salman chooses has the potential to become a hit. This is why she does not feel pressured while working with him. Instead, she feels confident because she knows she has the freedom to present her ideas and that Salman will choose what works best for him.
Shabina also referred to several popular songs they have worked on together, including Naach Meri Jaan from Tubelight, You Are My Love from Partner, Jai Ho, Hud Hud Dabangg, songs from Dabangg 3, Radhe and Prem Ratan Dhan Payo. For her, these songs reflect the long-standing creative association they share.
Towards the end of the conversation, Shabina once again emphasised that Salman has always been welcoming towards her. Recalling her visits to his farmhouse, she said that his behaviour remains equally warm and welcoming with everyone. For her, his kindness is not limited to professional relationships or people he knows personally.
That, perhaps, is what makes her admiration for Salman Khan so personal. From giving her opportunities and helping her gain recognition to inspiring her charitable work, Shabina believes his influence has changed her life in many ways. And while she proudly carries the recognition of being Salman Khan’s choreographer, she continues to describe him with one heartfelt word: her angel.
source https://lehren.com/exclusive-i-am-in-safe-hands-shabina-khan-reveals-how-salman-khan-changed-her-life/
