Salman Khan Backs Rajpal Yadav After Awards Show Remark Sparks Debate: ‘You Bring Value, Keep Working’

Actor Salman Khan has come out in support of fellow actor Rajpal Yadav after a remark at a recent awards show seen by many as mockingtriggered mixed reactions online.

The incident took place at the Screen Awards 2026 held in Mumbai on Sunday. In a clip that has since gone viral, one of the hosts made a comment referencing Rajpal Yadav’s cheque bounce case, for which the 55-year-old actor was briefly jailed before being granted bail in February.

“Rajpal bhai, dollar kitna bhi upar-neeche ho jaye, aapko utne hi paise lautane padenge, jitne udhar hai,” the host said, drawing laughter from sections of the audience and even a brief reaction from Yadav himself.

However, the moment appeared to catch the actor off guard. After a short pause, Rajpal Yadav responded, “Masla toh sun lo ek baar. Main toh masla hi sunana chahta hoon,” indicating he wanted to explain his side of the issue.

Viral Clip Triggers Mixed Reactions

Videos of the exchange quickly spread across social media, sparking a divided response. While some viewers treated the remark as light-hearted humour typical of awards shows, others criticised it as insensitive, especially given the legal troubles referenced.

The debate soon gained traction online, with many questioning whether personal matters should be used as punchlines on public platforms.

Salman Khan Steps In With Support

Amid the growing chatter, Salman Khan took to social media to extend his support to Rajpal Yadav, highlighting the latter’s long-standing contribution to the industry.

“Rajpal bhai, aap 30 saal se kaam kar rahe ho aur hum sabne aapko baar-baar repeat kiya hai kyunki aap apna kaam jaante ho aur ek value laate ho,” Salman wrote, praising the actor’s craft and consistency.

He further added that work would continue to come his way regardless of circumstances. “Kaam toh aapko bohot milega… dollar upar ho ya neeche kya farak padta hai, dena toh India mein hi hai,” he said, encouraging him to stay focused and continue working with sincerity.

A Show of Solidarity

Salman Khan’s message has been seen by many as a gesture of solidarity at a time when Rajpal Yadav found himself at the centre of an uncomfortable public moment.

Known for his comic timing and memorable roles over decades, Rajpal Yadav remains a familiar face in Hindi cinema one whose journey, as Salman pointed out, has been defined by resilience and consistent work.

The Larger Conversation

The episode has also reignited conversations around the tone of humour at awards shows and the fine line between entertainment and sensitivity.

While such platforms often thrive on satire and light banter, the incident serves as a reminder that public humour can sometimes land differently especially when it touches upon personal challenges.

For now, Salman Khan’s intervention has added a strong voice of support, shifting the narrative from controversy to camaraderie.