Salman admits to directing portions of Ready

Speculation is rife that Salman Khan has been sitting through the edit of his forthcoming release Ready. Two songs, Dhinka chika… and Character dheela… from the film co-starring Asin were re-shot following some brainstorming sessions and dance improvisations with the star.

Confront him about the rumour and Salman surprisingly admits to even directing portions of the Anees Bazmee film.

“Anees was busy with Thank You’s promotional activities last month. And I had started filming Atul’s (producer Atul Agnihotri) Bodyguard. We were running slightly behind schedule. So, to ensure that Ready keeps its June 3 date at the theatres, Anees filmed at one location and I took over at another,” reasoned the actor, adding that the director and he would sit together to edit the portions amicably.

Is Salman, who has already penned two scripts, Chandramukhi (1993) and Veer (2010), planning to turn director soon? “I like being an actor… coming to the sets aaram se (at leisure) and sitting in my make-up room when I’m not required for a shot,” he says, adding, “A director is a hands-on person and is on his or her toes till the film is out. Why take on added stress?”

However, he does plan on launching his own film banner. Brothers Arbaaz and Sohail already have their own production houses. Arbaaz, who debuted as producer with the blockbuster Dabangg (2010) is planning to turn director with its sequel, the script for which is currently being developed.

Sohail Khan Productions flagged off with I — Proud To Be An Indian (2004), followed by Lucky: No Time For Love (2005), Maine Pyar Kyun Kiya (2005), Fight Club —Members Only (2006), Partner (2007), Kisaan (2009) and Main Aurr Mrs Khanna (2009). These films may not have given Salman much reason to cheer, but he’s hoping for a commercial turnaround with Sher Khan that will see him as a desi Tarzan.

For the time being, Salman reportedly wants to put his sisters, Alvira and Arpita in charge of his production company. “The whole family will be involved. We’ll start with one film and depending on how that goes, we’ll chart our future plans,” he says.

Meanwhile, all his earnings from stage shows, TV appearances, advertisements, T-shirt sales and accessories have been directed to Being Human, a charity trust Salman started to provide medical aid to those who can’t afford it. He says, “Whatever money my film makes, after paying off taxes, will also go to the foundation.”