Sonali Kulkarni on being cast as Salman Khan's mother despite being 9 years younger: 'I can't be playing this role'

Sonali Kulkarni, nine years younger than her co-star Salman Khan, was initially hesitant to play the role of his mother in Ali Abbas Zafar's 2019 film Bharat. The casting decision drew attention and faced skepticism, but Kulkarni's casting was ultimately approved by the director and casting director Mukesh Chhabra. Kulkarni, 51 at the time of filming, admitted her initial reluctance, stating, "I can't be playing this role."

However, she later came around to the decision, agreeing that the film's structure, particularly the flashback sequences, relied on her presence to establish the title character's background. Despite her reservations, Kulkarni described the experience as a challenge and a temptation to work with Khan, noting that their bond grew stronger on set.

She also mentioned that Khan was consistently gracious and even lent her his cycle to ride. The film was a commercial success, grossing Rs325.58 crore at the box office, and Kulkarni reflected on her role as a significant opportunity.