Mumbai: Veteran actor Rajeev Verma, best known for playing Salman Khan’s father in the 1989 blockbuster Maine Pyar Kiya, has revealed why he gradually stepped away from Bollywood and television despite enjoying a successful career spanning decades. The actor now leads a quieter life in Bhopal, where he is associated with theatre activities and also runs a hotel business.
Rajeev Verma became a familiar face in Hindi cinema through his portrayal of affectionate fathers, businessmen and family patriarchs in films such as Hum Saath Saath Hain, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Biwi No. 1, Koi… Mil Gaya, Chalte Chalte and Andaaz. His performance as Salman Khan’s father in Maine Pyar Kiya remains one of his most recognised roles.
Speaking about his decision to leave the entertainment industry, Verma said that acting had gradually stopped giving him creative satisfaction. He explained that film and television work had started feeling repetitive and routine, making him lose interest in continuing with regular assignments. According to him, the industry often typecasts actors into fixed categories, limiting opportunities to explore different characters.
Recalling his experience after the success of Maine Pyar Kiya, Verma said he was repeatedly offered similar fatherly roles. He noted that filmmakers often preferred to cast actors in the same kind of characters that had worked for them previously, making it difficult to break away from established screen images.
The actor also shared that after years of continuous work, he wanted to spend more time with family, friends and relatives. He felt that the demanding schedules of films and television had distanced him from many personal relationships. Verma said he eventually chose a lifestyle that offered greater peace and balance rather than chasing stardom in Mumbai.
Now based largely in Bhopal, Verma remains deeply involved in theatre, which he describes as his true passion. Reports suggest that he conducts theatre related activities and workshops while also managing a hotel business that provides him with financial stability. He has often said that theatre gives him the creative fulfilment that mainstream films and television no longer offered.
Interestingly, Verma once revealed that many viewers believed he was Salman Khan’s real life father because of his convincing performance in Maine Pyar Kiya. Looking back at the film, he pointed out that when it was made, Salman Khan himself was a newcomer and had not yet become the superstar he is today.
Rajeev Verma’s journey reflects a rare choice in the film industry, where an actor at the height of recognition decided to step away from the spotlight in search of personal fulfilment and creative freedom. While he may no longer be a regular face on screen, his memorable performances continue to hold a special place among Bollywood audiences.