Salman Khan, the iconic Bollywood superstar, was a close associate of Baba Siddique for several decades. Their relationship was not just limited to the glitzy world of entertainment but extended deeply into the political arena as well. Siddique, a notable leader from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and a former Member of the Legislative Assembly representing the Bandra West constituency in Mumbai, was tragically shot dead last Saturday evening, leaving both the political and film industries in shock and disbelief.
Siddique’s untimely death has not only resonated across the political circles but has also left a void among the Bollywood elite with whom he shared a profound camaraderie. Siddique, known for his political tenure with Congress and later NCP, was often seen in the company of Bollywood figures, most notably Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt. It was through Salman Khan’s emphatic support that Siddique had managed to secure his position as an MLA from Bandra West, a testament to their strong alliance and mutual respect.
In the wake of Siddique’s passing, an old video clip of Salman Khan has resurfaced and gone viral. The footage depicts Khan energetically urging the people of Bandra to cast their votes for Baba Siddique. Standing in front of a cheering crowd, Salman articulates, “Jo best man hai aapke constituency ke andar, aap uske liye vote kijiye” (Vote for the best man from your constituency). Amidst the resonant cheers of the crowd, when asked who the best candidate is, the name “Modi” echoes in the air. Salman, undeterred, adds, “Aapke liye yahan best man Modi hain, Meri jo constituency hai Bandra, wahan par best man hai Baba Siddique aur Priya Dutt” (Here, Modi is the best man for you, but in my constituency Bandra, the best men are Baba Siddique and Priya Dutt). Salman’s endorsement reflects not just a personal engagement, but also his political persuasion and commitment to Siddique.
The profound camaraderie shared between Salman Khan and Baba Siddique was well-recognized and established over decades of interactions and public appearances.
. Their relationship was one of mutual trust and collaboration, solidified by Salman’s public appeals on behalf of Siddique, even in the presence of high-profile leaders like Narendra Modi. Salman has openly acknowledged Siddique’s role and influence in politics, encouraging people to extend their support by voting for him, highlighting the powerful bond they shared.
Baba Siddique was also credited with playing a pivotal role as the peacemaker in resolving the infamous feud between two of Bollywood’s biggest titans, Salman Khan and Shahrukh Khan. The discord between the two actor giants had been a subject of media scrutiny for years until Siddique took the initiative to bridge the divide at his well-known Iftar party, thereby facilitating a famous reconciliation. Baba Siddique’s Iftar gatherings were an annual gala adorned with Bollywood’s glitterati, reflective of his enduring influence and rapport with the film fraternity. His son, Zeeshan Siddique, currently upholds the political legacy by serving as the MLA from Bandra West.
On the fateful evening last Saturday, chaos reigned as news broke about Baba Siddique being shot by three unidentified assailants outside his son Zeeshan’s party office in Bandra East. Medical officials later confirmed his passing at around 11:30 pm. Upon hearing the devastating news, Salman Khan rushed to Mumbai’s Lilavati Hospital to console and extend his support to the bereaved Siddique family. Joining Salman at the hospital were other Bollywood stalwarts, such as Sanjay Dutt and Shilpa Shetty, all present to express their condolences and support during this difficult time.
The tragic demise of Baba Siddique marks a somber end to an impactful political journey intertwined closely with the dazzling world of Bollywood. His legacy, underscored by solid political achievements and notable friendships with luminaries like Salman Khan, is now left in the hands of his son Zeeshan, who continues to traverse the path laid by his father. As tributes pour in from both political and entertainment sectors, the loss of Baba Siddique resonates deeply, reminding everyone of the cherished memories and indelible impact he leaves behind.
